Urgent Tips for a Sustainable Halloween Amid Rising Plastic Waste

UPDATE: With Halloween just around the corner on October 31, 2025, families are urged to rethink their traditional celebrations to combat the alarming rise of single-use plastics contributing to environmental damage. Eco-Monkey, a sustainability advocate from Eco-Cycle, provided crucial tips to help families enjoy Halloween while significantly reducing their environmental footprint.

Parents are feeling the pressure this year as kids demand costumes and decorations from big-box stores, which often contribute to waste and pollution. Eco-Monkey urges families to embrace a Zero Waste approach, ensuring that fun does not come at the expense of the planet.

Costume Solutions for an Eco-Friendly Halloween

Instead of purchasing new costumes, consider these easy alternatives:

• Thrift Shop Finds: Check local thrift stores for pre-loved costumes. Kids typically wear costumes only once, making this a sustainable option.
• Costume Swap: Organize a costume swap with friends and family to exchange outfits and reduce waste.
• DIY Creations: Get creative! Use household items and materials from creative reuse centers to design unique costumes.
• Modify Past Costumes: Keep a “costume box” filled with old accessories. This can spark creativity and reduce the need for new purchases.

Eco-Conscious Decorations

Decking the halls doesn’t have to lead to a trash crisis. Eco-Monkey recommends:

• Natural Decorations: Use pumpkins, gourds, and corn stalks to celebrate the season. After Halloween, compost them properly.
• Durable Décor: Invest in reusable decorations from thrift stores. Quality pieces can be stored and used for years.

Sustainable Treats for Trick-or-Treaters

When it comes to treats, Eco-Monkey has practical advice:

• Recyclable Packaging: Opt for candy in recyclable materials, such as paperboard boxes or aluminum wrappers. Remember to roll plastic wrappers into balls to ensure they are accepted in recycling bins.
• Homemade Delights: Prepare candied apples or roasted pumpkin seeds for a fun, waste-free treat at home.

“By making small changes, families can enjoy a fun-filled Halloween while protecting the environment,” said an Eco-Cycle representative. “Every action counts in reducing plastic waste.”

As the Halloween season approaches, families are encouraged to prioritize sustainability over convenience. These eco-friendly practices not only help the environment but also teach children the importance of responsible consumption.

GET INVOLVED: For more tips or to ask questions about Zero Waste practices, contact Eco-Cycle at [email protected] or call 303-444-6634.

Share these tips with friends and family to make this Halloween a spooky but sustainable one!