The holidays are over, and it’s time to part ways with your Christmas tree. But did you know there’s a sustainable way to dispose of it here in Portland (and most other communities in Maine)? Instead of letting it go to waste, your tree can have a second life—whether it’s turned into mulch or even used to generate electricity!
Here are your options:
- Drop It Off
Bring your tree to one of three convenient drop-off locations:- Cutter Street Parking Lot (East End)
- Payson Park
- Riverside Golf Course
From there, the trees are taken to the Riverside Recycling Facility, where they’re transformed into mulch.
- Curbside Pickup
Can’t make it to a drop-off spot? No problem! You can leave your tree at the curb between January 6th and 17th, and the city will collect it for you. These trees are sent to ecomaine, where they’re burned in a waste-to-energy facility. “They’ll be turned into electricity that powers our neighborhoods” adds Troy Moon from Portland Sustainability Office.
If you don’t live near the Portland area, check in with your local public works department and ask about drop off locations or curbside pickup for sustainable and easy ways of tree disposal!
Before disposing of your tree, make sure to remove all decorations, lights, and stands. These items can interfere with the processes.
By taking just a little extra time to dispose of your tree properly, you’re helping Portland stay sustainable and ensuring your holiday greenery contributes to something bigger. Whether it becomes mulch or electricity, your tree can make a difference! 🌲
