Earlier this year, an unusual question surfaced in New York City: Why are discarded Christmas trees treated as trash instead of compost? It’s a telling sign—the city’s annual Christmas tree recycling program is fading from public attention, and with it, the sight of unwanted trees left on curbs continues to grow.

“Most households still prefer a classic 1.6-meter Christmas tree. But look around town—commercial squares and event spaces are filled with artificial trees standing 2 to 5 meters tall during the Christmas season. And 80% of passersby can’t resist snapping photos of those giants,” shared a marketing lead from Star Factory Lantern. “That trend hasn’t gone unnoticed. It inspired our customers following the lastest lineup of Christmas tree light decorations.”