Eco-Halloween: Celebrate Sustainably This October

Fun, low-waste tips for costumes, decorations, and treats this spooky season on campus.

Halloween is one of the most exciting months on campus. Students dress up, decorate dorms, and attend parties with friends. These celebrations are full of energy but can also generate a surprising amount of waste. Costumes, decorations, and packaged snacks add up quickly. The good news is that with a few creative choices, students can have a memorable Halloween while keeping their environmental footprint small.

Costume Ideas:

• Thrifted outfits or clothing swaps: Find hidden gems at thrift stores or borrow from friends.

• DIY costumes: Use items you already own to create unique, one-of-a-kind looks.

• Accessories and makeup: Transform old clothes with creative touches for last-minute flair.

• Reusing and repurposing clothing saves money, reduces textile waste, and encourages more creative costume designs.

Decoration Tips:

• Pumpkins: Carve, paint, or use them as compostable décor.

• Natural materials: Turn pinecones, leaves, and twine into garlands, centerpieces, or wall hangings.

• Swaps and donations: Encourage friends to exchange decorations or donate old items instead of buying new.

• Even small decoration choices can make a dorm or apartment feel festive without creating unnecessary landfill waste.

Snacks and Treats:

• Minimal packaging: Choose locally made or bulk treats to cut down on single-use plastics.Reusable or compostable tableware: Cups, plates, and utensils that can be washed or composted.

• Fun “zero-waste” tables: Challenge guests to bring snacks in reusable containers or join in themed snack swaps. These little changes help keep celebrations exciting while limiting environmental impact.

Extra Tips for Small Actions:

• Walk to nearby events instead of driving.

• Use LED candles instead of real flames for safer, greener lighting.

• Turn off extra lights when not needed to save energy.

• Encourage friends to share ideas and challenge each other to creative, sustainable solutions.

This October, embrace a “spooky but sustainable” mindset. Every thrifted costume, eco-friendly decoration, and mindful snack choice counts. Campus Halloween can be fun, stylish, and low-waste, proving that sustainability and celebration go hand in hand.