Scary Statistics on Halloween Waste

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THE BAHAMAS – Halloween is just around the corner, and in tonight’s edition of Sustainability First, we’re looking at how you can make more eco-conscious decisions this spooky season.

Halloween is known for costumes and spooky movies, but it also produces some scary statistics.

Eighty-three percent of Halloween costumes contain non-recyclable plastic. A study by Fairyland Trust found that a single Halloween season in the U.K. generates over 2,000 tons of plastic waste from costumes alone—equivalent in weight to 83 million Coca-Cola bottles.

In the U.S., over 35 million Halloween costumes are thrown away annually.

To make this year’s Halloween more sustainable, consider visiting a charity thrift store for a lightly used costume. Since most costumes are worn for only a few hours, a costume swap with friends and family is also a great option.

Many costumes bought online contribute to fast fashion pollution. Instead, try creating a DIY costume—you’d be surprised how many characters you can recreate with items already in your wardrobe.

Happy costume hunting!