How to Have a Green Halloween: Sustainable Tips for a Spooky Celebration

Halloween is all about spooky fun, but it can also generate a lot of waste — from single-use costumes to plastic decorations. If you're looking to enjoy an eco-friendly celebration, we’ve got you covered with these simple tips for a greener Halloween! 

1. DIY Costumes - Use What You Have

Instead of buying a new costume that may only be worn once, get creative with what you already own. Dive into your closet for clothes or materials you can up-cycle into a unique costume. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces the demand for fast fashion. If you’re not feeling crafty, consider swapping costumes with friends or visiting a second-hand store.

2. Eco-Friendly Decorations

Plastic decorations may be cheap, but they often end up in landfills. This year, go for natural or reusable alternatives. Use pumpkins, oranges, hay bales, and gourds to set the mood — they can either be composted or repurposed after Halloween. If you love the DIY route, craft decorations from recycled materials like paper or fabric. String up some old fairy lights for a cosy, eerie glow!

3. Sustainable Trick-or-Treating

Sweet wrappers contribute heavily to Halloween waste. Instead of conventional plastic-wrapped sweets, consider offering treats with less packaging, such as chocolates wrapped in foil or paper. Another idea is to offer non-sweet treats like pencils, seed packets, or small reusable toys.

4. Reuse or Make Your Own Treat Bags

Plastic bags are a common trick-or-treating accessory, but they’re not very eco-friendly. Opt for reusable alternatives like cloth tote bags, pillowcases, or even decorated old shopping bags. You can have fun decorating them with spooky designs, making the treat bag part of your festive tradition!

5. Compost Your Pumpkins

Don’t throw your pumpkins in the bin after Halloween! They are fully compostable, so make sure to dispose of them in your compost bin or check if local farms will accept them for animal feed. You can even save the seeds to roast for a delicious snack or to plant in your garden next year.

6. Host a Zero-Waste Halloween Party

If you’re throwing a bash at home, try to avoid single-use items. Use real plates, cups, and utensils, or if that’s not feasible, choose compostable or biodegradable options. Encourage guests to bring reusable containers for leftovers, and if you’re serving drinks, consider having a big punch bowl instead of individual bottles or cans to reduce waste.

7. Plan Ahead for Next Year

Finally, store your decorations and costumes so you can reuse them for years to come. A little planning ahead helps reduce waste and makes each Halloween greener than the last!

With a few small changes, you can celebrate Halloween in a way that’s kinder to the planet. From DIY costumes to eco-friendly decorations, there are plenty of ways to make this day just as spooky and fun—without leaving a heavy environmental footprint.  

Wishing you all a spooky and fun Halloween from moonmoon.