Halloween can be full of unnecessary waste but making it a sustainable holiday can be easy. Refusing, reducing and composting are things to consider when getting ready for the big day. Here are 6 tips for a sustainable Halloween:
- Decorations – When finding decorations, look for things that can be used year after year, rather than single-use, non-recyclable decorations. Make your own decorations with things around the house, or art supplies. Decorate with LED lights to minimize energy usage.
- Costumes – Make your costumes from items you already have or make a trip to your local thrift store to find some cool second-hand costume pieces. Try to purchase items that you could wear again so you’re reusing. Or repurpose items or fabric into costumes. The voodoo doll costume was created from burlap coffee bean bags that we picked up for free at a coffee roastery.
- Pumpkins/Jack-O-Lanterns – Get the most out of your pumpkins by turning them into delicious treats after the holiday. Use the flesh to make baked goods or soups. Remove the seeds and roast them for a snack or turn them into bird feed. Don’t forget to compost any pumpkin scraps you may have during this process.
- Going Trick or Treating – Bring a pillowcase or reusable bag to put your treats in. Limit the houses you plan to stop at, to limit the amount of waste you will receive. When you have a choice, choose the candies in cardboard boxes, such as raisins, Milk Duds, or Nerds. If possible, trick or treat close to home to limit the use of gasoline.
- Handing out Treats – Homemade goods are the easiest way to limit your waste when handing out treats. If baking isn’t your forte, opt for snacks that are packaged in cardboard or compostable packaging. Another idea is to give out handmade trinkets, such as woven bracelets, soaps, or rocks/crystals.
- Be a Role Model – Educate your kids to ensure they make sustainable choices when celebrating Halloween. Suggest more sustainable options to your friends or neighbours who may not have considered it.
Tips contributed by Maia from Zilch Boutique. www.zilchboutique.com
