New Policy Brief Calls for Action to Protect Ontario’s Christmas Tree Industry from Climate Change Risks
Ontario’s Christmas tree farming, an industry that holds deep cultural significance and growing environmental value, is facing increasing threats from climate change.
A new policy brief from the Waterloo Climate Institute and the Christmas Tree Lab, led by Prof. Kelsey Leonard, highlights the need for climate resilience measures for Ontario’s Christmas tree industry.
As a long-cycle crop, Christmas trees are confronting challenges with rising temperatures, extreme weather, and the spread of pests and diseases. Across Canada, farmers are already reporting higher seedling mortality, shifting growing conditions, and mounting pest pressures. Despite these risks, Christmas tree farms remain largely unaccounted for in government policy, limiting key opportunities for climate adaptation and economic growth.
This policy brief emphasizes the need for greater support for Ontario’s Christmas tree industry, including policies that recognize Christmas tree growers as essential to climate-resilient agriculture. To ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability, the brief proposes five key action areas for all levels of government:
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Uphold cultural heritage.
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Align crop insurance policies to tree farming.
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Address climate-driven pests and diseases.
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Integrate Christmas tree farms into climate policy.
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Promote post-holiday tree recycling.
Protecting the future of Christmas tree farming means supporting it as both a cultural tradition and a climate solution – one that strengthens rural economies, enhances biodiversity, and contributes meaningfully to Canada’s climate goals.
Learn more about the Christmas Tree Lab and follow them on social media.