In The News
As interest in sustainable holiday practices and climate pressures in agriculture continue to gain attention, our work has been captured across various media. The following collection of media mentions showcases the stories, interviews and expert insights that have highlighted the people and practices behind the art of producing a real Christmas tree, as well as bringing our work into the public spotlight.
Canadian Affairs
December 24, 2025
Canadian Christmas tree farmers are worried some of their tree species won’t survive a warmer climate. Here’s how they — and the trees — are adapting
The Week
December 22, 2025
There may be a slim chance of future white Christmases
Waterloo News
December 12, 2025
Waterloo researchers are helping to make a much-loved holiday tradition more sustainable all year round
The Calm Christmas Podcast
December 11, 2025
Listen to the full episode here on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on Beth Kempton’s website.
The Weather Network
December 8, 2025
University of Waterloo lab pushes for a more sustainable, environmental sector
CBC News - Kitchener-Waterloo
December 6, 2025
University of Waterloo lab pushes for a more sustainable, environmental sector - There are over 400 Christmas tree farms in Ontario and many are finding it difficult to grow the trees as the effects of climate change take hold.
CBC Radio-Canada
December 6, 2025
Do you know what a Christmas tree lab is? The University of Waterloo's Christmas Tree Lab supports Canadian Christmas tree growers, develops sustainable practices and strengthens the resilience of this industry, according to the lab's website.
Wellington Advertiser
December 4, 2025
Droughts, and all extremes of weather, have become an increasingly undeniable reality afflicting the 418 Christmas tree growers across the province relying on the seasonal tradition.
How Christmas tree farmers are adapting to climate change and rising costs
The cost of living and increasingly unpredictable weather are among the top challenges facing Christmas tree farms. CBC's Tyler Cheese spoke to the owners of one Ontario farm on how they've adapted.
CBC News
November 28, 2025
‘Labour of love’: Ontario Christmas tree farmers gather for education day in Listowel
This weekend, growers from across the province gathered in Listowel for their annual field and education day.
CTV News
August 16, 2025
CBC News
January 3, 2025
Curbside collection and repurposing initiatives are 2 ways to get rid of this year's trees
Take off the tinsel! What to do with your Christmas tree after the holidays
Global News recently spoke with Kelsey Leonard on the best ways to dispose of your Christmas tree.
Global News
December 27, 2024
Waterloo News
December 19, 2024
The University of Waterloo is home to Canada’s first Christmas tree lab and is partnering with the Christmas Tree Farmers of Ontario to advance sustainable initiatives
Christmas trees: Knowing the environmental impact of going real vs. artificial
In the midst of the 2024 holiday season, Global News talks to Dr. Kelsey Leonard from the University of Waterloo’s Christmas Tree Lab about the pros and cons of real and artificial Christmas trees, including the environmental impacts.
Global News
December 12, 2024
Waterloo News
December 11, 2024
Waterloo professor Kelsey Leonard shares insights on the environmental impact of Christmas trees
Christmas tree grower says changing climate brings 'more bad years than good years'
This year was a good one, tree farmer says, but uncertainty lingers
CBC News
December 10, 2024