A row of carved pumpkins sat on top of a cabinet, with candles in them.
©️ 8th Folkestone Guides

Green your Halloween: Sustainable tips from Folkestone Blue Influencers

Halloween is a time for fun and creativity, but it can also be a time of significant waste. Blue Mentor Jenny Luddington from Kent Wildlife Trust has been engaging with youth groups in Folkestone, including The Shed Urban Wilderness and Be You, asking young people their top tips to make Halloween more sustainable.

 

DIY Halloween and upcycling

Instead of buying new decorations, why not make your own?  Like creating leaf luminaries by upcycling old jam jars and gluing on fallen autumn leaves. This not only reduces waste but also adds a personal, natural touch to your Halloween decor.

 

Sustainable party decorations

For Halloween parties, think about using natural decorations instead of plastic. If you do use plastic, consider how you can dispose of it responsibly. One idea including creating a box for Halloween decorations ensuring they are used year after year, reducing waste.

 

Use the whole pumpkin

When carving pumpkins, make sure to use every part of it. Toast the seeds for a tasty snack and use the flesh to make delicious soups or pies. This way, nothing goes to waste, and you get to enjoy some seasonal treats.

Homemade costumes

Rather than purchasing costumes that might only be worn once, consider making your own. You can also look for pre-bought costumes to buy or swap. This not only saves money but also reduces the environmental impact of fast fashion.

 

Responsible trick-or-treating

If you go trick-or-treating, be mindful of litter. Make sure to dispose of wrappers properly and respect signs asking not to knock, as older or vulnerable people might find it unsettling.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a fun and festive Halloween while also being kind to the environment. Let’s make this Halloween a sustainable one! 🎃🍂

Youth Worker Ruth Tyler says that at The Shed Urban Wilderness that they always aim to strike a balance between balance between fun and learning and trying our best to make greener choices rather than trying to be perfect.

What other sustainable practices do you think could be added to this list?

Big thank you to Layla, Kayley, Crystal, Dylan, Blake and Evie of The Shed Urban Wilderness and the young people of Be You.

 

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