Well, its almost that time again: Halloween. I love the holiday. There’s nothing better than watching kids throwing candy wrappers on the ground, and seeing rows of our neighbors’ houses wrapped in toilet paper and silly string. There are the cavities, the dirty costumes… oh, and don’t forget the wasted decorations in the garbage the next day. Sounds like a good holiday, right?

I don’t know about you, but that’s not exactly my favorite way to celebrate the season. But, in the name of all things good and nostalgic, there are definitely ways to avoid being wasteful around this time of year. In fact, we could all get our fill of spook and sugar if we all took the time to do the holiday right!

Here’s are a few tips I follow to make sure I stay as Green as I can be:

1. I buy and carve my pumpkins on Halloween. They last a bit longer throughout the season,
and by the last day the price is very reasonable. And to avoid being wasteful, I use all the fillings to make roasted pumpkin seeds, and pumpkin pies… what’s not to love about that?!

2. I don’t buy paper decorations. Instead, I try to reuse what I already have. For example, I’ve used old thread as spider webs! If I’m really itching to make something with paper, I’ll make sure it’s recycled.

3. For costuming, I frequent second hand shops, and used clothing stores. One person’s junk is another person’s masquerade!

4. I go to organic candy stores, such as Yummyearth.com, were they sell safe, natural and healthy candies and treats.

5. Most importantly, I line my street and the neighboring streets with garbage cans. It really limits the amount of candy wrappers and garbage left on the ground the next day.

With just a bit of effort, and just as much fun, we can all be sure to add a little Green between our Orange and Black this year! Staying eco-friendly is always fun, even if the holiday is a bit frightening.

-Cassie