In brief
As Halloween approaches, Americans are expected to spend over $11 billion on festive items, contributing to significant waste. However, experts suggest ways to celebrate more sustainably this year.
In an age where Halloween spending in the United States is projected to exceed $11 billion on candy, costumes, and decorations, the potential for waste becomes alarming. Massive quantities of items like plastic decorations and candy wrappers often lead to landfills overflowing. Sabina Magliocco, an anthropology professor at the University of British Columbia, observes a significant transformation over the years, noting that Halloween has evolved from a modest, community-driven harvest festival to a commercialized extravaganza. Historically, Halloween was rooted in the belief that the spirits of ancestors wandered the earth during this period. People offered food to ensure no spirit left unappeased. With the post-World War II commercialization of the holiday, the focus shifted to mass-produced costumes and candy. There has arisen growing concern about the ecological footprint of Halloween festivities.Fortunately, experts propose several strategies to celebrate Halloween in an environmentally friendly manner. Making costumes using old clothing, hosting zero-waste parties, choosing bulk candy options, and utilizing natural decorations can help reduce waste significantly. Additionally, returning to community events that require minimal resources can create joyful experiences while caring for the planet.As we gear up for the spooky season, let’s prioritize sustainability in our celebrations this Halloween. With these thoughtful approaches, we can enjoy the festivities without leaving a harmful impact on our environment.
