More Than Half of U.S. Adults Plan to Buy or Use an Artificial Tree This Christmas, Finds New CouponCabin.com Survey

WHITING, Ind., Dec. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Rocking around the... artificial Christmas tree? The lyrics to one of the most famous and beloved Christmas songs may have to be amended, as more than half (54 percent) of U.S. adults(1) report they will buy or use an artificial Christmas tree this year. Of those who plan to buy or use an artificial tree, 36 percent said that they would do so because it is better for the environment. Cost is another huge factor in the choice to purchase an artificial tree, as 61 percent said they will get an artificial tree because it is less expensive than buying a real tree every year. This survey was conducted online nationwide by Harris Interactive on behalf of CouponCabin.com from November 14th-16th, 2011 among 2,207 U.S. adults aged 18 and older.

Those who plan to buy an artificial tree are on their way to being "greener," i.e. more environmentally friendly, and many others plan to join in the green movement. Four-in-ten (43 percent) U.S. adults said they are at least considering being "greener" this holiday season than in years past, and with good reason, as 42 percent agree that you can save money by going green.

"Many people are realizing that going green can pay off in big ways," said Jackie Warrick, President and Chief Savings Officer at CouponCabin.com. "Not only does being more environmentally friendly help our planet and preserve it for generations to come, but it also helps to save, well, green! Making a few well-thought out investments can help you save money in the long term. Consider going green this holiday with energy efficient lights, an artificial tree and more, and think of ways to keep that attitude going all year long."

No matter how you plan to shop and celebrate Christmas this year, Warrick offers the following tips to go green, and save green while you're at it:

• Invest in a timer: Everyone loves a beautiful Christmas lights display, but it doesn't need to be lit 24/7. Pick up an easy-to-use timer to ensure your lights aren't running around the clock.
• Use recyclable items: If you're hosting a Christmas meal, consider using recyclable plates, napkins and utensils to lessen the waste of your celebration.
• Turn down the heat: Whether you're heading out of town or hosting a large event, your thermostat (and heating bill!) could use a break. Turn it down a few notches to save green and consume less energy.
• Cut back on paper: When you're out shopping for gifts, ask yourself if you need a box and bag for everything you purchase. Also, consider re-using giftwrap, bags and bows rather than always buying new ones.
• Get rid of your tree the right way: If you do decide to purchase a live tree, look into ways to recycle or reuse your tree instead of just tossing it. Many communities will compost it, use it as mulch or consider re-planting in your yard with the proper equipment.

Consumers aren't the only ones who should consider going green this Christmas; stores and companies that are environmentally conscious might end up on top. Nearly one-in-five (19 percent) of U.S adults said they are much or somewhat more likely to buy holiday gifts from an environmentally friendly company or store than from one that is not.

Survey Methodology:

This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of CouponCabin from November 14th-16th, 2011, among 2,207 U.S. adults aged 18 and older. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore, no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact: Allison Nawoj, [email protected].   

(1) U.S. adults who celebrate Christmas

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