A CHRISTMAS tree supplier is marking 30 years of business by introducing three carbon-reducing initiatives.

Trinity Street Christmas Trees in Dorchester says it is possible to bring a ‘greener’ Christmas to the area.

It has been tending a local plantation of Christmas trees which it will harvest for the first time this year – and is also giving away 300 baby trees.

Owners Peter and Tamzin Hyde planted their own Christmas tree farm eight years ago in a bid to reduce carbon road miles, produce a sustainable, year-on-year Christmas tree supply and provide daily, fresh trees for local homes and businesses.

Mr Hyde said: “We have been nurturing these trees in the Dorset countryside since their initial planting eight years ago. This year brings the first harvest and we are very proud of the quality trees that have been produced.

“All cut trees will be replaced in our continuing replanting scheme. To avoid importation miles, we will meet any additional demand with trees sourced from our plantation in Scotland.”

Real trees are the preferred option for a minimal impact on the environment, according to the Carbon Trust. It reports that a two metre tall real tree has a carbon footprint of 3.5kg of carbon dioxide, if it is disposed of by chipping or burnt. A two metre artificial tree has a carbon footprint of 40kg of carbon dioxide, the trust says.

Real trees also absorb carbon dioxide and other potentially harmful gases from the atmosphere while emitting oxygen.

The business is encouraging families to plant a tree by giving away baby trees to its first 300 customers. The Norway Spruce sapling could reach 6ft in 10 years’ time.

Trinity Street Christmas Trees is also ditching plastic netting, used by most suppliers, in favour of a biodegradable option.

Mr Hyde said: “Once you have selected your perfect tree, we will wrap it up in biodegradable netting for the trip to your home. We have spent a lot of time researching the best eco product and, as far as we know, we are the first supplier to use this product in the area.”

Trinity Street Christmas Trees will be open seven days a week when its main site opens opposite Co-op and Laura Ashley in Dorchester tomorrow – and in Weymouth, outside Morrisons on Dorchester Road, from Friday.