How can I make this Halloween more sustainable?
The recipe for a great Halloween celebration is loads of fun, a good dose of creativity, and a sprinkle of spookiness! But as we indulge in all the treats and tricks, it's essential to consider our impact on the planet. We’ve put together a few ideas on how to celebrate Halloween sustainably with eco-friendlier costumes, decorations, and treats.
Eco-Friendly Costumes
DIY Costumes - Instead of buying a new single-use costume, get crafty! Use materials you already have at home or raid your closet for inspiration. Recycle fabrics and transform old clothes into unique costumes. A simple dress can become a witch's outfit with a few alterations. Upcycled accessories like old hats, scarves, and jewellery to add flair to your costume without additional waste.
Swap Costumes - Host a costume swap with friends or family. Everyone brings their old costumes and trades them for something new (to them!). It’s a fun way to refresh your look without spending a dime or adding to landfills.
Natural Face Paint - If you're looking to add some spooky makeup, consider using natural face paints made from fruits, vegetables, or other plant-based materials (check out recipes online). Or hunt through the back of your bathroom cupboards and use up any old make-up that’s otherwise going to waste.
Sustainable Decorations
Nature-Inspired Décor - Instead of plastic decorations, use natural materials to create a festive atmosphere. Carve a pumpkin for your front porch, and save the seeds for roasting. After Halloween, eat your art and compost any remains! Use leaves and branches to create a spooky hallow vibe and make wreaths or centerpieces.
DIY Decorations - Get the family involved in creating decorations. You can make honemade ghosts from scrap paper or old sheets. Hang them around your home for a whimsical touch. Create boo-tiful banners from recycled paper or fabric scraps, spelling out Halloween-themed messages.
LED Lighting - If you want to illuminate your space, opt for LED lights. They use less energy and can be reused for years to come. Choose solar-powered options for an even greener choice!Can you re-purpose the same light strips for Halloween and Christmas?
Treats with a Conscience
Homemade Treats - Make your Halloween treats at home! This way, you can control the ingredients and reduce packaging waste. Consider making healthy snacks such as popcorn balls, fruit skewers, or pumpkin muffins. Fill reusable goodie bags with homemade treats or bulk snacks from local shops, reducing single-use plastic waste. Tip: Our calico drawstring bags make perfect goodie bags and come in black or natural (which can be home-decorated to fit your theme!).
Eco-Friendly Candy Options - If you prefer store-bought treats, look for brands that prioritise sustainable packaging and organic ingredients. Fairtrade chocolates are a great choice, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their work.
Plantable Treats - Consider giving out seed packets or small plants as a treat! They encourage kids to engage with nature and can be a delightful, non-sugar option.
Mindful Parties
Eco-Conscious Invitations - Send digital invitations instead of paper ones to save trees and reduce waste. There are many online platforms that offer beautiful templates for free!
Waste Management - If you're hosting a Halloween party, set up clear recycling and composting stations. Encourage guests to sort their waste correctly to minimise your event's environmental impact. Use compostable resealable bags to divvy up treats.
Eco-Friendly Games - Plan games that use little to no resources, like classic games of charades or storytelling. Alternatively, create scavenger hunts using items found in nature.
Celebrating Halloween sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing fun; it simply means being mindful of our choices. By opting for DIY costumes, nature-inspired decorations, and eco-friendly treats, you can enjoy a spooky season that’s kind to the planet. So, gather your friends and family, get creative, and make this Halloween a memorable one! Happy Halloween! 🎃