Farleigh Hospice is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its much-loved Christmas Treecycling initiative, and 2026 has marked its biggest year to date. With the support of 74 dedicated volunteers on the busiest day, a record 3,500 real Christmas trees were collected from households across the Chelmsford district over four days. Using smart route-planning software, collections were carried out efficiently, helping to reduce vehicle emissions and unnecessary journeys.

Trees with roots were saved and replanted locally at Farleigh Hospice or in the community, while those without roots were taken to Generals Farm in Boreham to be chipped. The resulting wood chips will be used as renewable biofuel for heating and energy generation on local farms.

According to the Carbon Trust, chipping your real Christmas tree can reduce its carbon footprint by up to 80%, supporting a more sustainable, circular approach, while lowering emissions associated with transport and disposal. A win for everyone!

Together, this community effort helps reduce waste, support renewable energy and raise vital funds so Farleigh Hospice can continue caring for local people when they need it most. Thank you for recycling your real Christmas Tree with Farleigh Hospice, and for supporting their incredible work!