As someone who cares deeply about the Earth (as I know you do), it probably hurts your tree-hugging soul to chop a living tree down and stick it in the middle of your living room. But according to Treehugger, a live tree can actually be a more eco-friendly solution than an artificial tree.

Surprised? So was I. That's because artificial trees are made from non-recyclable PVC, so when it wears out or you get sick of hauling it out of the basement year after year, into the landfill it goes. Tree farms, on the other hand, plant new trees for every one that gets chopped, making them a sustainable option. Of course, there are a few conditions:

• 1. Get your tree from a local tree farm, not a business that's had trees shipped from thousands of miles away.
• 2. Look for an organic farm that doesn't use harmful chemicals.
• 3. When Christmas is over, be sure to compost your tree. If you're lucky enough to live in a city that has a composting program, make sure you use it.

If you really, really, really want to go green, the most environmentally-friendly Christmas tree option is to not get one in the first place. If that feels too Grinch-y, you can also get a potted tree that you can plant outside when the season is over.