Eco-Friendly Halloween Decorations

A big part of Halloween is the impressive decorations, which are often mass-produced, primarily plastic, and seen as disposable. The problem there is that so many decorations every year end up in landfills, when they could have been reused or avoided all together.

One of the easiest ways to be more environmentally friendly is to simply reuse decorations that you already have. Many of us already have a plethora of decorations. Try to get creative and use them in new ways, rather than buying new.

If you’re looking for something new or don’t have many decorations, you have a few options.

Biodegradable DIY Halloween Decorations

The best way to handle sustainable decorations is to make them yourself from all natural items that you can compost after the holiday passes.

If you live in an area where you have lots of colorful autumn leaves, decorate with those and pinecones. You can even get some spooky hole punches and make confetti-style decorations out of the leaves.

Let’s not forget the most classic Halloween decoration there is: Jack-o’-lanterns! If you can source your pumpkins from a local farm or grow them yourself that’s even better. It can be loads of family fun carving them, they’ll look great as decorations, and you can compost them when you’re done. (You can even save some of the seeds for planting next year instead of roasting all of them!)

Thrifted Halloween Decorations

If you do still want to purchase some decorations, try getting them second-hand instead of a party store or big retailer.

This way you’re continuing to use items that were in circulation and avoiding creating additional demand for new, wasteful decorations.

Additionally, you can often find some real gems at thrift shops when it comes to vintage or unique decorations. You’d never be able to find some of the cool stuff in thrift stores from modern party decoration suppliers.

Disposing of Halloween Decorations

Depending on the type of decorations you have, you may need to dispose of them differently. Please consider the best options for disposal for each item.

For Biodegradable Decorations

Jack-o’-lanterns, leaves, and other natural decorations can be composted – either industrial composting or at home.

You may want to consider starting your own compost pile, especially if you’re a gardener!

For Reusable Decorations

Take a look at what you have before pitching anything – can you reuse them next year? If so, save your money and the planet.

Organizing and storing decorations that you can use again next year is one of the best ways to work towards a zero waste Halloween.

For Disposable Decorations

Disposable decorations are of course best avoided, but if you do have any disposable items or even reusable items that have reached the end of their lifespan, consider the materials and how to best recycle or upcycle them.

Many municipalities also offer special recycling programs for holiday lights or other items, so it’s worth a quick check to see if there are any programs available in your area.

Related Sustainable Halloween Guides

• Eco-Friendly Halloween Costumes
• Ethical & Eco-Friendly Halloween Treats
• Throwing a Green Halloween Party