Green waste is the material left over from pruning, felling and trimming during tree surgery work. It is a biodegradable waste product that is naturally high in nitrogen and can be reused or recycled in a number of environmentally beneficial ways.
Responsible handling of green waste is an important part of professional tree surgery, helping to reduce landfill use and support sustainable practices.
Types of Green Waste
Green waste generated during tree surgery generally falls into three main categories:
Woodchip
Woodchip consists of small pieces of wood produced from trunks and branches using a wood chipper. Once reduced in size, woodchip can be recycled and reused in a variety of ways.
The majority of green waste produced during our tree surgery projects is recycled as woodchip.
Timber
Larger sections of wood often have more value than simply being chipped. Timber can be processed into logs and reused in different ways, including as firewood or for other practical purposes.
Non-Chippable Waste
Some materials are not suitable for processing through a wood chipper. This may include waste that contains grit, stones or other contaminants. This material is classed as non-chippable waste and requires separate handling.
Why Recycle Green Waste?
Green waste is biodegradable, meaning it can be broken down naturally by microorganisms. When reused or recycled correctly, it provides valuable benefits to the environment and should not simply be left to rot in landfill.
Recycling Woodchip
Once green waste has been processed into woodchip, it can be reused in several ways. Many customers choose to keep woodchip for use in their gardens, where it can be used to line pathways or borders.
Woodchip can also be used as mulch, which is spread over soil to help retain moisture, improve soil structure and suppress weed growth. To be most effective as mulch, woodchip should be left to compost for several months before use.
Recycling Timber
Timber recovered during tree surgery is often kept by customers for use as firewood. It can also be repurposed more creatively for building projects, such as decking, beams or furniture.
Where customers do not wish to keep the timber, it can be passed on to local individuals or businesses who are able to make use of it, ensuring the material is reused rather than wasted.
Responsible Tree Surgery in North Wales
At Dragon Tree Services, we aim to recycle as much green waste as possible as part of our commitment to responsible and sustainable tree care.
If you would like advice or a free, no-obligation quote for any tree surgery work, please get in touch.
