The most die-hard Halloween fans plan so far in advance that a post on the day of doesn’t do them much good. For the rest of the world that has just started their Halloween preparations today, here’s a couple of tips to keep it eco:

1. Avoid Harsh Makeup and Chemicals
While a mask may not be the most environmentally friendly choice, it is better for your skin and health than a lot of the fake blood and other face paints that are on the market. Save it for a costume party or next year’s Halloween so that you can get maximum use out of it.

2. Choose Paper over Plastic in Packaging
If you can find candy that comes in individual cardboard or paper packaging rather than plastic, buy that instead.

3. Recycled Costumes over New
Come up with a costume idea that you can pick up at your local second hand store rather than buying a new costume. Where available at the last minute, opt for a costume rental if you want to get really fancy.

4. Use Grocery Bags as Trick-Or-Treat Bags
Way better than plastic, and they can generally hold more!

5. Encourage Healthy Eating
While it is inevitable that your little monsters will be bouncing off the walls into the wee hours of November 1st, dole out their candy in small batches supplemented with chopped veggies or fruits for after-school snacks throughout November. Don’t do this with older kids; you’ll just set off the horror of preteen rage if you try.

Above all, have a safe and healthy Halloween!!