Can Halloween be an environmentally-friendly holiday? Well, first there are the elaborate costumes that get worn once a year and the face-paint containing toxic chemicals. Then you’ve got the bite-sized sugary, processed candies and chocolates, all individually wrapped. And what about all those pranksters wasting perfectly good toilet paper on trees?
Trust me there are some ways to teach the kids to be green on Halloween. Why not convert a costume from past Halloween into something new? For example, a black robe from a witch costume can have a second life as a nun’s habit or a Zorro costume. Not enough accessories? Take a trip to the thrift store and buy some second-hand gear. This works particularly well for elaborate gowns, 70s outfits or sport uniforms. And don’t forget about “natural” hair dyes like flour for achieving white hair.
Now about those individually wrapped candies and chocolates…that’s a tough one because most parents will warn kids against eating apples or fresh baked goods from strangers as they are easier to tamper with. Let your kids eat the processed junk food (it’s a special treat), but try and make the treats you give out as healthy as possible. There are some neat products available in health food stores like natural chewing gum (http://www.gleegum.com/) and candies made from natural fruit juices or low in sugar.
Got any tips of your own? I’m looking for some good ideas for my costume this year…
