10 Top Ways People Generate Waste During Halloween

Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but it can also be a frightful season for the environment.

Between costumes, decorations, and parties, the amount of waste generated during this festive period is alarming.

Here are the top 10 ways people generate waste during Halloween and what you can do to minimise your impact.

Quick Summary

UK businesses, especially in hospitality and retail, can reduce Halloween waste by choosing sustainable decorations, minimising plastic and packaging waste, and promoting recycling in the workplace.

Collaborating with a responsible waste management provider helps ensure proper waste segregation and recycling compliance, making it easier for businesses to celebrate sustainably while protecting the environment.

Table of Contents

1. Disposable Costumes
2. Plastic Decorations
3. Single-Use Party Supplies
4. Candy Wrappers
5. Pumpkin Waste
6. Flyers and Paper Promotions
7. Food Waste from Parties
8. Excessive Candy Buying
9. Non-Recyclable Trick-or-Treat Bags
10. Electronic Decorations
Need to Reduce Waste in Your Business?

1. Disposable Costumes

Many Halloween costumes are made from cheap, synthetic materials and are used only once.

After the holiday, they often end up in landfills. Consider renting, swapping, or making your costume from sustainable or reusable materials.

2. Plastic Decorations

From fake spider webs to plastic pumpkins, Halloween decorations are typically made from non-biodegradable materials.

These items are rarely recycled and are usually thrown away after just one use. Opt for reusable decorations or natural items like pumpkins and gourds, but make sure that you read our blog on how to make use of leftover pumpkins!

3. Single-Use Party Supplies

Halloween parties often come with an abundance of single-use plastic cups, plates, and cutlery. These items add up quickly in landfills.

Switch to reusable or compostable options, or encourage guests to bring their dishes.

4. Candy Wrappers

Individually wrapped candies are a staple of Halloween but contribute significantly to plastic waste. Try offering homemade treats, candy in recyclable packaging, or non-food items like stickers or small toys.

5. Pumpkin Waste

Millions of pumpkins are carved each year, and most of them are thrown away after Halloween. To reduce waste, use the entire pumpkin by roasting the seeds and using the flesh for soups or pies.

Turn your food waste into energy with us! Get a food waste bin for your business and help reduce landfill waste while supporting sustainable energy solutions in your community.

6. Flyers and Paper Promotions

During Halloween, many businesses distribute paper flyers and promotional materials. Most of these end up as waste. Digital marketing or eco-friendly, recyclable paper alternatives can help cut down on this type of waste.

7. Food Waste from Parties

Halloween-themed snacks and party foods often lead to food waste. Plan to avoid overbuying, encourage guests to take leftovers home, and compost any food scraps to reduce your environmental impact.

8. Excessive Candy Buying

Many people buy more candy than they need, resulting in leftovers that go to waste. Purchase candy in bulk and only buy as much as you expect to need.

You can also donate any excess to local food banks or community centres.

9. Non-Recyclable Trick-or-Treat Bags

Many trick-or-treat bags are made from non-recyclable materials and are discarded after a single use. Use reusable bags or containers for trick-or-treating, such as tote bags, pillowcases, or decorated buckets.