Why shouldn't you collect things from the forest for Christmas decorations?

BarcelonaChristmas is approaching, and it shows in the decorations. Natural elements take center stage, whether in the form of fir trees or moss for nativity scenes. In the past, it wasn't unusual to go to the woods to gather the necessary materials, but today this is discouraged: this seemingly insignificant practice does considerable harm to the environment. On a small scale, it may seem harmless, but on a large scale, it's a form of exploitation that leaves a lasting impact.

Moss, for example, is one of the most popular materials but also one of the most vulnerable, because it fulfills an essential function for the ecosystem: retaining moisture and providing shelter for various microorganisms. Boxwood, holly, galzeran, and mistletoe are also plants that are frequently harvested at this time of year. As for trees, the fir is the undisputed champion, the quintessential Christmas tree. However, whether the forests where the plants are collected are public or private, although there is no specific regulation, the owner's permission is required to uproot any plant material and take it away. Rural Agents Sub-Inspector Adrià Olivé highlights the ambiguity of the regulations: "It's the same as with mushrooms: if the forest owner doesn't want anything harvested from their land, it would be considered theft."

Beware of protected species

Among the most sought-after species at this time of year Some are protected, such as the boxwood holly."Protected natural parks—for example, Collserola and Montserrat—have specific regulations that prohibit their collection," explains the sub-inspector of the Rural Agents. This means that those who collect the plant in these areas can be prosecuted and fined between €100 and €100,000, depending on the location, the quantity collected, and the purpose. Authorities differentiate between those who harvest material for personal use and those who seek to sell the products, but warn of the environmental damage caused in all cases: "These species have a function in the ecosystem, and if we all collect them now, at this time of year, it will have a significant impact." The solution for having a stunning and sustainable nativity scene is much simpler than it seems. By using reused materials or alternative products—such as sawdust or bark—the impact on forests can be reduced during this special time of year. For those who, however, wish to use moss, boxwood, and holly to create a real fir tree, Christmas market stalls offer these products, but they do so in a regulated and transparent manner, following official controls.