At the risk of sounding a bit Grinch-y, I have seriously mixed feelings about getting a Christmas tree.

I like trimming the tree, and look forward to pulling out dusty ornaments acquired over the years, some dating back to Girl Scout macaroni crafts. I like the perennial colored lights vs. white lights debate, and seeing the lights flicker on. And, of course, I like to see lots of presents piled up under the tree, especially the ones for me.

What I don't like is the sharp pangs of guilt that hit me at the Christmas tree lot, and again when it comes time to mulch the thing before its dried out needles fall off.

A recent conversation with some friends confirmed that I'm not the only one who experiences tree guilt. Several of them were similarly conflicted about having a tree, real or plastic. In most cases, they weren't sure which was the better option, and for good reason: There are pros and cons to both.

In general, the eco-consensus is that a real tree is better for our planet (and our homes). Tree farms ensure that millions of trees are planted annually, which supports both farmers and eco-systems. They are a renewable resource. But it's important to remember that as an agricultural product, most are grown with conventional farming methods, although there are a few organic [0] tree farmers out there.

Fake trees can't compete on the eco-front, because they aren't biodegradble and most are grown in factories from petroleum-based (and unsustainable) plastic, PVC, aluminum, or other less-than-green materials.

There's a more in-depth look at organic Christmas trees [1] as well as the real vs. fake tree debate [2] at Grist. The National Christmas Tree Association, (which, of couse, favors the use of real trees) has an overview [3] on the subject.

Personally, I've found a few work-arounds over the years. My favorite is chopping down my own in the nearby mountains; each year the state park service issues permits as part of a controlled forestry plan to minimize the risk of wildfires.

And for years now, I've decorated [3] a six-foot tall ficus tree in my living room with ornaments and lights. I also like the idea of ornament trees (like the one pictured [4]) and decking the halls rather than a tree. Besides, I appreciate the trees that I see at the homes of friends and family.

I realize that most people — especially kids — still want to wake up to a traditional tree on Christmas morning. Still, as Charlie Brown showed us, "pitiful" trees [5] have a charm of their own.