Halloween is a time for fun, but it can also be a wasteful holiday. The environmental impact can be big when you consider all the single use items, packaging, and more. But you can make small changes to enjoy Halloween with more of a sustainable focus. Here are some tips for making your Halloween a little more eco-friendly.
Choose Reusable or Upcycled Costumes
Instead of buying new costumes each year, consider reusing or swapping with friends and family. You can also find used costumes on Facebook marketplace or consignment shops.
You can also create a unique look by upcycling old clothing or thrift store finds into something festive. For example, upcycle a dress or cheerleader outfit into a zombie version.
Eco-Friendly Decorations
Skip cheap plastic decorations or single use items that break easily and are tossed in the trash. Invest in reusable decorations made from wood, fabric, or metal. You can also make your own décor from natural materials like pumpkins, gourds, and dried corn stalks — all of which can be composted after the season ends.
Sustainable Treats
While individually wrapped candy is common, it creates a lot of plastic waste. Look for treats in paper-based packaging, or consider non-candy options like pencils, stickers, art items, etc. If you do choose traditional candy, buy in bulk to reduce packaging.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting
If you use lighted decor for Halloween, switch to LED lights, which use far less energy. Solar-powered lanterns or string lights are a great way to create a spooky atmosphere while saving on electricity.
Compost and Reuse Pumpkins
Instead of tossing your carved pumpkins in the trash, compost them or feed them to wildlife if safe in your area. You can also save the seeds for roasting, planting next season, or sharing with friends.
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