A Green Halloween

By ESC Member Brittany Vega

Let’s get spooky for a minute! According to the U.S. Dept of Agriculture, the United States produces about 1.4 billion pounds of pumpkins every year. Add to that all the costumes, plastic candy containers, makeup and candy wrappers wasted and we’re talking numbers so high that they will keep you up at night! A little scary, right? With that in mind, here are some small changes your family can make to “Go Green” this Trick or Treat season!

1. Opt for a reusable candy bag. No need to buy a new bucket, instead find something you already own and make it work! Skip the plastic and grab an old tote bag or pillow case. Remember, for kids – it’s what’s in the bag that counts!

2. Buy locally grown pumpkins. A local favorite is Kuhlwein’s Farm. Family owned and located on Walker Road in Hilliard. Give them a call for seasonal hayride/pumpkin picking hours.

3. Make your own costume. This can be as simple as a classic sheet ghost (think white sheet, some scissors and a permanent marker) or as creative as you want to get. Pinterest is a great source with many DIY ideas that others have tried. Don’t forget to save costumes if you have multiple kids. Younger kids love modifying costumes that their “big sibling” once wore.

4. Shop for eco-friendly candy & save your wrappers. Think organic, fair-trade options! If you plan ahead and buy before the prices rise, you can get better candy for nearly the same price! Candy wrappers can be dropped off year-round at the Recycle Station located just inside the entrance of the Hilliard Community Center. Encourage your family and friends to save up their wrappers and go together to drop them off. It’s always more fun to take care of the Earth together!

5. Save supplies from previous years. Do your best not to fall into the trap of buying new pumpkin carving tools, candy buckets and costumes each year. Have a designated space for items you can store and reuse every time the Halloween season comes around!

6. Use all parts of the pumpkin. Don’t forget about the tasty little seeds found inside your pumpkin. Roasting these with a little salt or cinnamon makes for a wonderful addition to your trail mix, pasta dish or healthy late-night snacking!

Before you think about dumping your pumpkin in the trash, visit the City of Hilliard’s Pumpkin Recycling Dumpsters. These containers will be out for public use from October 28-December 1.

Halloween doesn’t have to be so scary for the Earth! Swapping out old choices for new ones that will have a lasting impact, will go a long way in doing your part in our community! Don’t forget to join Hilliard as we celebrate Trick or Treat on October 31st from 6-8pm!