Fall is in the air, crisp cool nights, the smell of fallen leaves and pumpkins everywhere. Halloween is fast approaching! When we think about Halloween, sustainability does not exactly come to mind. But the amount of waste generated from this single holiday is staggering. According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are predicted to spend $10.14 billion on Halloween this year! The volumes of plastic candy wrappers, single use costumes and decorations take a heavy toll on the environment. So it is high time we think green for Halloween! Here are some tips to have an Eco-Friendly Halloween.
Costumes
Most costumes are mass-produced and made from unsustainable materials, like polyester and contain dyes that are detrimental to humans and the environment. The poor quality results in constumes that typically don’t survive a second season. This fast-fashion generates a huge carbon footprint.
Consider making your own costumes. If sewing is not for you, go to your local thrift shop. With a little creativity and a glue gun, you can repurpose your finds. Personally, I have created my best costumes from items purchased from the local thrift store. Better yet, host a Halloween costume swap with friends and neighbors. Costume shops are another green option.
Treats
Food allergies affect 1 in 13 children! Approximately 1 in 100 have Celiac Disease, an intolerance to gluten and many more have allergies to nuts, dairy and eggs. Whether it’s your own little ones with intolerances or if you would just prefer to provide allergy-free candy for the masses this year, here are some safe options that everyone can enjoy. If possible try to find in boxes rather than wrappers.
Skittles
Starbursts
SourPatch
Nerds, Smarties
Enjoy Life Foods Ricemilk Crunch Chocolate Minis
Decorations
Halloween is one of the most fun holidays of the year, but it’s time to rethink traditional decorations. Between cheap plastics,synthetic fabrics, toxic dyes and packaging, Halloween leaves a huge carbon footprint. But there are many ways to be eco-friendly when decorating for Halloween.
Use fresh pumpkins and gords purchased from your local farmers market, pumpkin patch or grocery store. Save those seeds to nosh on! (Recipe here). Don’t throw out your pumkins after the holiday, if they are still good, scatter them in the woods or fields for wildlife. Be sure to break them open first. If they are decomposing, add them to your compost pile.
Cornstalks and hay or straw bales are another good eco-friendly option. When my daughter was small, we created an entire halloween scene with construction paper and taped it to the window. Giant spooky tree with lots of leaves, bats, ghosts and witches. I cut out the pieces and had her glue them together. If the weather permits, go on a nature walk and gather sticks, twigs, leaves and pinecones. Pinterest is full of ideas for ways to use these items in your decor!
Remember, Always Reduce, Recycle and Reuse!
Happy Haunting!
Eco-Friendly Tips For A Sustainable Halloween
3 Replies to “Eco-Friendly Tips For A Sustainable Halloween”
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Excellent tips!
Thank you! If there is anything you are curious about or would like to learn more about, let me know.
Can I just say what a comfort to discover someone that actually knows what theyre discussing on the internet. You definitely know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people must check this out and understand this side of the story. I cant believe you arent more popular since you certainly possess the gift.