Published: 23rd October 2023

Read Time: 3 mins

How to Have a Sustainable Halloween


As the spooky season approaches, many of us are preparing to celebrate ​Halloween with costumes, decorations and treats. However, amidst the fun ​and fright, it is essential to consider the environmental impact of our ​celebrations. Here are some tips on how to have a sustainable Halloween and ​ensure that the only thing scary this year is your costume!


Zero Waste Decorations

Opt for decorations made from natural materials like pumpkins, gourds, hay ​bales or corn stalks. These can be composted after Halloween. If buying ​decorations, choose those made from sustainable materials and ensure they ​are durable to last for many years. Better yet, source your decorations from ​second-hand shops or make your own from things lying around the house.










DIY Costumes

Rather than buying new costumes, get creative with what you have at home or ​visit a thrift store. DIY costumes not only save money, but also reduce the ​demand for new products and the associated environmental impact.











Reusable Trick-or-Treat Bags

Encourage kids to use reusable bags or buckets for trick-or-treating. Old ​pillowcases or fabric bags are a great alternative to plastic bags.











Sustainable Treats

Purchase treats with minimal packaging or opt for bulk candy to reduce plastic ​waste. Look for local brands committed to ethical and sustainable practices. ​We love the social enterprise, Tony’s Chocolonely!










Community Costume Swap

Organise a costume swap in your community. This is a fun way to recycle ​costumes and foster a sense of community whilst promoting sustainability.










Non-toxic Face Paint

Opt for face paints with natural ingredients. Many conventional face paints ​contain harmful chemicals that are bad for your skin and the environment.










Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Embrace these three Rs of sustainability this Halloween. Reduce waste by ​choosing reusable and durable items, reuse decorations and costumes and ​recycle where possible. Throwing a Halloween party? Take those excess ​recyclables to your local waste transfer station, usually for free!










Mindful Pumpkin Use

Don’t let your pumpkins go to waste! After carving, roast the seeds for a ​healthy snack and use the flesh to make soups, pies or other tasty treats ​(check out this list of recipes by Taste.com.au). Compost the remains in your ​garden.










Throw a Terrifyingly Sustainable Party

If hosting a Halloween party, use reusable plates, cups and utensils. Consider ​sending digital invitations instead of paper ones.











Support Local

Purchase your Halloween supplies from local farmers and artisans. This ​supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with ​transporting goods long distances.










By integrating these sustainability tips into your Halloween celebration, you ​can enjoy the festivities while minimising your environmental impact. ​Sustainability and Halloween can indeed go hand-in-hand, and with a little ​effort, we can make this spooky season a green one. So, this Halloween, let’s ​aim to scare away the ghosts and ghouls, not our commitment to a circular ​planet!


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