As the festive season fast approaches, the Czech Republic witnesses a surge in Christmas tree sales, transforming city corners into evergreen havens. The holiday spectacle kicks off in earnest from the start of December, with some vendors seizing the opportunity as early as November. However, a deep-rooted tradition of cutting Christmas trees directly from the forest, once prevalent among Czech residents, is now facing sustainability concerns and legal repercussions.

Until recently, cutting down a Christmas tree from the forest was a common practice, embraced by one in five Czechs according to surveys. However, this seemingly innocent tradition is now viewed as theft, with the Forest Law imposing fines of up to 15,000 crowns for such activities. Forest managers have further taken measures to deter this practice by treating endangered trees with a special coating that emits an unpleasant odor when warmed indoors.

The ethical dilemma surrounding the Christmas tree tradition raises questions about whether the festive spirit is better served by a living tree in the forest where families can gather for gift exchanges, rather than a cut tree adorning homes. Some families are aligning with this sentiment, opting for smaller potted trees available at popular outlets like Bauhaus, with prices ranging from 635 to 745 crowns for spruces measuring up to a hundred centimeters.

Nevertheless, traditional Christmas trees such as spruces, pines, and firs continue to be in demand. Trees up to a meter high are available for three to four hundred crowns, with the premium firs, renowned for retaining their greenery even in warm apartments, fetching prices of up to four thousand crowns for towering four-meter specimens.

In light of the environmental impact, there is a growing call to consider sustainable alternatives. Families are encouraged to support eco-friendly practices by choosing potted trees or purchasing from certified growers, ensuring a festive season that not only brings joy to households but also safeguards the well-being of the environment.

Article by Prague Forum