Halloween the Eco-Friendly Way, Part 2

Posted on October 9, 2007 by Allie

What’s Halloween without pumpkins? And pumpkins can be an amazingly eco-friendly way to decorate.

When you go pumpkin shopping, try to buy organic. Visit LocalHarvest.org to look for organic pumpkin farmers in your area.

Decorate with big carved jack-o’-lanterns mixed in a cluster of smaller pie pumpkins (don’t forget to roast the seeds!). After Halloween is over, the pie pumpkins can be put to good use. Use beeswax or soy candles to illuminate your jack-o’-lanterns, or check out these: LED Votives, Set of 2

Paint your pumpkins with non-toxic paint, instead of carving and you’ll have plenty of pumpkin for casseroles and other festive fall treats.

Gourds and squash make excellent decorations too. If you’re not buying organic, make sure the gourds you buy aren’t coated with shellac. Keep them in a cool, dry place after Halloween and use them to decorate your Thanksgiving table (or even as a side dish).

When the holidays are over, don’t forget to compost!

No Comments +

No comments yet.

Leave a comment

Tip of the Day

Bring Your Own Utensils

I carry a titanium backpacking spork around in my purse.  I know that sounds kind of weird, but it saves me from using disposable utensils when I eat out, and it’s so light, I never even notice that I’m carrying it.

Before the Industrail Revolution it was common for guests to be expected to bring their own utensils with them when invited to dine, because utensils were expensive, labor intensive items, and most people didn’t own extra sets.  Now, when it’s possible to buy a set of 1,000 plastic utensils for under $20, people don’t even think about bringing their own.

But think of the plastic waste that can be saved by slipping a fork from home in your purse on the way out the door.  You don’t need anything fancy.  Grab one from your kitchen drawer, or if you’re worried about loosing a piece of a set, pick up a few spare utensils the next time you hit a discount store, thrift shop, or yard sale.  It’s simple a simple way to cut down waste, and it’s always nicer to eat with real utensils anyway.

  • Frontier Herbs - All natural, organic, top quality, sustainably harvested

    Alltop, all the cool kids (and me)