Tree-Cycling Triumph

Record-breaking year for North Somerset’s recycling project

North Somerset’s popular Christmas tree-cycling initiative wrapped up for the 2025/26 festive season, celebrating its most successful year since launching six years ago. The scheme, delivered in partnership with Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, St Peter’s Hospice, Weston Hospice, North Somerset Environment Company (NSEC), Glendale Services and North Somerset Council, once again combined environmental action with community generosity.

Thousands of real Christmas trees were given an eco-friendly second life, with Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm repurposing and recycling around 4,000 trees - the highest number to date. The donated trees were used to provide natural enrichment for animals and chipped for reuse across the site, supporting sustainable land management and helping reduce waste. A standout highlight this year was the creation of a striking bear mosaic, crafted entirely from donated trees. The artwork symbolised the creativity, collaboration and environmental values at the heart of the project.

The initiative also delivered significant benefits for local hospice care. Residents across North Somerset helped raise tens of thousands of pounds, with St Peter’s Hospice collecting 1,075 trees and raising more than £21,400 to fund 98 night nurse shifts, while Weston Hospice collected 940 trees, raising £19,872.50 to support vital local services.

Cllr Annemieke Waite, cabinet member for planning and environment at North Somerset Council, praised the scheme as a shining example of community spirit, thanking partners and residents for their support. The council confirmed the tree-cycling initiative will return next winter for another successful year.