Halloween Waste Reaches Unprecedented Levels
Halloween celebrations are driving a massive surge in waste each year. As the spooky season draws near, people in the UK have increased their online searches for “Halloween costumes” by an astonishing 5,000% in the past month. At the same time, searches for “pumpkins” have soared by 400%. These numbers highlight just how much enthusiasm surrounds Halloween, but they also draw attention to a growing environmental problem.
Environmental Consequences of Costume and Pumpkin Waste
Most Halloween costumes are made from plastic-based materials and are worn just once before heading to landfill. Pumpkins, after serving as festive decorations, often end up as food waste. This annual cycle contributes significantly to environmental issues, with millions of costumes and pumpkins discarded every year. We must remember that our choices during Halloween affect our planet. Choosing sustainable costumes and composting pumpkins can make a big difference in reducing waste.
