Tinsel to tidewall: discarded Christmas trees reused to protect Lancashire coastline

The Guardian World

by Josh Halliday North of England editor

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Discarded Christmas trees are being repurposed in an innovative environmental project along the Lancashire coastline to combat rising sea levels and protect fragile ecosystems. Instead of ending up in landfills, thousands of festive trees have been partially buried on beaches south of Blackpool, where they form natural barriers against coastal erosion. This unique approach not only helps mitigate the effects of climate change but also creates habitats for rare species, offering a dual benefit to both the environment and local wildlife. The initiative is part of broader efforts to address the impacts of rising sea levels along the Lancashire coast. By embedding the trees into the sand dunes, they act as a natural buffer, reducing wave energy and preventing coastal erosion. This sustainable method mimics the role of natural dunes, which are often eroded or damaged by storms. The project highlights how discarded materials can be creatively repurposed to address environmental challenges, showcasing the potential for eco-friendly solutions in combating climate change. The transformation of Christmas trees into a protective barrier is both practical and symbolic. It demonstrates how everyday waste, such as holiday greens, can contribute to larger-scale environmental efforts. By burying the trees, they gradually break down and merge with the surrounding sand dunes, creating a more robust natural defense system. This approach also supports local biodiversity by providing shelter

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/15/2026