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The scariest thing about spooky season might just be its impact on the planet.
It’s that time of year again – the air is crisp and the days are shorter, signalling a return to Halloween’s many rituals: pumpkin carving, costume shopping, and houses haunted by single-use plastic.
While Halloween may have a knack for seasonal delight, it also leaves behind a rather sinister legacy: a staggering 83% of Halloween costumes are made from non-recyclable, oil-based plastics, according to a recent study by environmental group Hubbub.
This means that the majority of costumes gracing pavements and parties next week will end up in landfill, contributing to around 2,000 tonnes of plastic waste (the equivalent of 83 million plastic bottles).
But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. Here are a few tips for celebrating a more eco-friendly Halloween and wasting less as you do it.
Get costume creative
Halloween costumes are, sadly, often designed for one-time use. It’s no surprise, then, that many of them quickly make their way to landfills. This year, consider challenging the one-and-done tradition. Before making a purchase, have a rummage through your wardrobe and get creative.
With a little ingenuity, a basic outfit can become anything from a spooky Victorian ghost to a noir detective.
Brands like MyWardrobeHQ and Hurr Collective have expanded their rental selections to include costumes, allowing you to stand out without adding another item to the waste pile. And for a more budget-friendly option, swap costumes with friends, or visit your charity shops for unique finds that can be altered to suit the season.
Decor do’s and don’ts
Halloween decorations are as alluring as they are fleeting. Instead of stockpiling cheaply made, plastic-laden items that won’t see the light of November, think sustainably when decorating.
Scavenge your garden or local park for branches, leaves, and other natural materials that can be crafted into a haunting atmosphere. Old bedsheets make excellent ghosts, and black cardboard can be cut into bats.
And if crafting isn’t your forte, consider eco-friendly retailers on sites like Etsy.
