How to Dispose of Your Christmas Tree in Switzerland
In Switzerland, saying goodbye to your Christmas tree is a tradition that usually happens around Epiphany on January 6th. While some families keep their trees until February 2nd, most are taken down by the end of January.
Disposal Methods in Swiss Towns
To dispose of your Christmas tree, check with your local council. Many Swiss towns offer free tree collection services in January. Consult your rubbish collection calendar or check online for information on collection days and any specific rules.
Preparing Your Tree for Collection
Follow your local authority’s guidelines for preparing your tree. Usually, remove decorations and place the tree on the street next to your bins the night before or early on collection day. Some areas may have size or weight restrictions.
Specifics for Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne, and Bern
- Zurich: Place the tree next to your bins on household waste collection days in January.
- Geneva: Deposit your decoration-free tree at household waste points between 7pm the day before and 6am on collection day (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday).
- Basel: Trees under two meters can be placed on the roadside the evening before official collection days; taller trees must be shredded.
- Lausanne: Place undecorated trees next to your organic waste container at any time for free collection.
- Bern: Undecorated trees under two meters can be placed next to the green bin by 7 am on collection day, varying by district.
Using the Green Bin and Composting
If you miss free collection, consider placing the tree in the green bin, following local restrictions. Alternatively, composting is an option, but note that Christmas trees decompose more slowly due to treatment chemicals.
Throwing Away Your Christmas Tree
As a last resort, throwing your tree in regular rubbish is an option. Cut and package the tree in provided bin bags, though this can be costly.
What Not to Do
Do not dispose of your Christmas tree in a forest, as the chemicals are harmful, and it is considered fly-tipping. Burning the tree is also prohibited due to environmental damage, potentially resulting in police intervention and criminal charges.
