Old Christmas trees will be used as an innovative and sustainable form of flood defence. The Environment Agency say that placing the coniferous trees along river banks will help reduce erosion and creates a good habitat for fish.
The trees have been used in previous projects as a greener alternative to using heavier engineering materials such as steel piling. Not only is this method more sustainable but it could also save thousands of pounds.
Mike Farrell, Fisheries Officer at the Environment Agency said: “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.”
Householders should contact their local authority to find out how best to dispose of or recycle unwanted trees after Christmas.
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