As Halloween approaches, pumpkins are everywhere—on porches, store shelves, and even in our lattes 🎃 But how many pumpkin decorations do we really need, and what can we do to make Halloween more sustainable?

The Pumpkin Craze

Americans spent over $3 billion on Halloween decorations in 2022, much of it on pumpkins—both real and artificial. While real pumpkins are biodegradable, many end up in landfills, producing methane gas. Artificial pumpkins, often made from plastic or foam, add to waste since they are typically not recyclable.

Sustainable Solutions for Halloween

Instead of buying new decorations every year, consider recycling and upcycling for a more eco-friendly celebration. Here are a few ideas:

1. DIY Recycled Pumpkins: Use cardboard, newspapers, and plastic bottles to create pumpkin decorations. Paper mache or plastic bottle pumpkins are easy, unique, and sustainable

2. Upcycle Old Décor: Repaint or revamp last year’s pumpkins or combine materials like fabric or lights to refresh your decorations.

3. Compost Real Pumpkins: Rather than tossing your pumpkins, compost them to enrich your soil.

Cardboard Box Costumes for Kids

Kids’ costumes can be made from cardboard boxes, fulfilling their Halloween wishes without waste. Transform boxes into superhero armor, animals, or fantasy characters. Add interactive features like LED lights or movable parts, and reuse or adapt costumes for future Halloweens.

A Greener Halloween

By embracing recycled and upcycled materials for decorations and costumes, you reduce waste while creating unique, personalized items. Whether it’s crafting your own pumpkins or making costumes from cardboard, small changes can make Halloween fun and sustainable. Celebrate creatively—and sustainably—this Halloween!