Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) and the Chicago Park District, has announced the annual Holiday Tree Recycling Program. This initiative will take place from January 11 to January 25, 2025, across 27 locations throughout the city.

“For over thirty years, the City has been hosting holiday tree recycling for Chicago residents,” stated DSS Commissioner Cole Stallard. He emphasized that this program is part of several sustainability efforts aimed at combating climate change in Chicago.

The program focuses on diverting organic material from waste streams by converting holiday trees into sustainable resources. Last year alone, it processed 24,536 trees into mulch and has handled a total of 389,000 trees over its 35-year history.

Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Rosa Escareño expressed pride in partnering with DSS for this year's program. She encouraged residents to contribute positively to the environment by dropping off their holiday trees at designated park locations. The recycled trees are converted into free mulch beneficial for both parks and residential landscapes.

Residents can drop off live and natural holiday trees inside designated recycling corrals after removing all ornaments, lights, tinsel, tree stands, and transport bags.

Angela Tovar, Chicago’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Department of Environment Commissioner, highlighted the significance of such programs in reducing carbon emissions. “The Holiday Tree Recycling Program is a great example of how simple actions from every Chicagoan can help move the needle on carbon emissions reduction,” she said.

This year offers six locations where residents can collect free mulch starting Monday, January 13. More information about ongoing recycling efforts is available at chicagorecycles.org.