| Some will be recycled, a few will
be replanted and many will sadly be dumped in a skip.
However, now the Environment
Agency has devised an innovative way of reusing Christmas
trees to reduce the risk of flooding.
The UK government-backed body has confirmed it has successfully
trialled projects in Cumbria and Cheshire, which saw felled
coniferous trees placed along river banks to help reduce erosion.
Large spruce logs are secured at the base of the eroding
river banks for stability, with Christmas trees then attached
to them to act as a filter and catch silt from the water.
In addition, to reduce erosion risks, the technique also
removes sediment that would otherwise smother fish eggs, preventing
them from hatching.
The agency said the method could save tens of thousands of
pounds when compared with the use of heavier engineering materials
such as steel piling to enhance flood protection.
An Environment Agency spokeswoman told BusinessGreen
the festive project was virtually free-of charge because the
unwanted conifers had been donated by the Forestry Commission
and United Utilities.
"This is the ultimate green gift for people and wildlife
living along our rivers. Homes are being protected from flooding
whilst new habitats are being created for mammals, fish and
invertebrates," said Mike Farrell, fisheries officer at the
Environment Agency.
"We hope this innovative use of Christmas trees will have
great potential for reducing flood risk. One in six properties
in England and Wales is at risk of flooding, so we are urging
everyone to find out if they are at risk by visiting the Environment
Agency website."
The agency also warned against people dumping unwanted trees,
urging homeowners and businesses to contact their local authority
to find out how best to dispose of them.
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