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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