Thinking Green This Halloween
“This is Halloween, Everybody Make a Scene!”
– The Nightmare Before Christmas
With the National Retail Federation expecting Americans to spend 6.9 Billion dollars on Halloween this year, Halloween will most likely be a scene. Whether you dress up or decorate your lawn with monsters and ghouls, there are many ways to think green this Halloween.
Freecycle Your Costume
Most store bought costumes are either poorly made or kids just grow tired with them after only one year. Instead of throwing costumes out and having to buy a brand new one each year instead attend a local Costume Swap Event or use a free swapping online service like Freecycle.org
Make a Costume Out of Thrift Shop Finds
If you listen to Macklemore you know that crazy items can be found real cheap at thrift shops. Many people go to thrift shops especially for Halloween. Some thrift shops even have Halloween sections. In fact, according to Goodwill, sales are highest in October, up 10-15%.
One Word, Pillow Cases
Instead of buying “cute”, one time use candy collection bags for Trick-Or Treating, instead opt for the old fashioned pillow case. Not only is it reusable but it also stores a lot of candy.
Reuse Unwanted Candy
Instead of throwing unwanted candy in the trash check out the website CandyExperiments.com
Get The Most Out of Your Pumpkin
Pumpkins have more functions than just as a scary Jack-O-Lantern. You can use the insides for soup or pie and you can also roast the pumpkin seeds for a delicious snack. When your Jack-O-Lantern has outstayed it’s welcome, and begins to rot, you can add it to your compost.
Use Reusable Decorations or Ones Made From Recyclable Materials
Invest in decorations that can be reused every year instead of ones that go straight from your yard to the landfill.
Trick or Treat for a Cause
Whether going door to door for Unicef or a more local cause, Trick or Treating with a donations box is a great way for children to learn about fundraising and helping others.
Be A Cause
Use Halloween to raise awareness to an important environmental cause. Have fun, be Yosemite Park on it’s birthday or the last moose in North America!
Enjoy!
(Please feel free to include your own Halloween tips)
Halloween Photo via Shutterstock