Hasselt (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Hasselt’s 16m Christmas tree is repurposed at Pairi Daiza for elephants and lions, with branches for elk, showcasing sustainability.
Every year, Hasselt finds a creative way to repurpose its Christmas tree from the Grote Markt after the holiday season. This year, Hasselt’s Christmas tree is going to Pairi Daiza Animal Park in Hainaut for a special event. The tree will be moved around the park, visiting different animal enclosures, which will create a fun connection between the tree and the animals.
How is Hasselt’s Christmas tree enhancing wildlife care at Pairi Daiza?
Hasselt’s Christmas tree was taken down early this morning on 9 January and loaded onto a truck for a special delivery to Pairi Daiza. Laurence Libert, a local official, mentioned that everything went well and they are prepared for the snowy conditions. The plan is to deliver the tree to the elephants by 10:00 AM, where it will serve as a fun plaything. After the elephants, the tree will be given to the lions to play with, and the branches will eventually be used as food for the elk. This creative project highlights the connection between the holiday spirit and wildlife care.
Transporting the 16-meter-high Christmas tree from Hasselt’s Grote Markt is quite a challenge due to its size and weight. Laurence Libert, a spokesperson for the project, noted that the tree needed special transport to move it. He mentioned that taking it to Pairi Daiza in Hainaut not only gives the tree a chance for a meaningful second life but also makes the most of the transportation effort, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Utilization of Christmas tree Pairi Daiza
Once the tree reaches Pairi Daiza, it will be used in three ways. First, it will become a play object for some animals, adding fun to their environment. Second, parts of the tree will be used as food, helping to nourish the animals. This approach ensures that every part of the tree is put to good use, reflecting the eco-friendly values of both Hasselt and Pairi Daiza. Laurence Libert pointed out that this project not only extends the tree’s life but also emphasizes the importance of giving natural resources a new purpose.
One year, they transformed the tree’s trunk into a sculpture now displayed at Leopoldplein. This artwork not only symbolizes sustainability but also showcases Hasselt’s commitment to reusing natural resources in meaningful ways, turning a temporary holiday symbol into a lasting piece of art that reflects the city’s cultural values and environmental awareness. It has been said that this project not only gives the tree a new use but also shows the importance of nature and sustainability. Pairi Daiza is known for its beautiful setting and focus on protecting wildlife.
