Did you know that 80% of the US$90 billion we spend every year on toys will end up in landfill? In 2019, The Fairyland Trust together with Hubbub reported that over 2,000 tons of plastic waste is generated by Halloween costumes sold in the UK alone. Every year!
And according to Waste Managed, in the US, over 5.4 million kilograms of textile waste are estimated to be produced by businesses and consumers throwing away Halloween costumes.
As an artisan maker, I’ve always hoped that what I am doing is pushing back against this trend and you reading this probably think along the same lines. However, budget constraints and the temptations to dress your child in the latest trends aren’t always easy to overcome.
So, hat can be done?
· Check the fabric content
What fibre content is the costume you want to buy made of? Is it all polyester (= plastic) or is the main fabric a natural fibre (cotton, silk, wool, Tencel or viscose) that can biodegrade easily.
· Buy something well designed
A well designed costume lasts longer than one season - even with a growing child. Turn the cuffs up? Does the waistcoat adjust in the back?
The design of a good costume usually allow is to be used for different characters, too. A pirate for Halloween can be a prince at Carnival.
· Buy less
I know I shouldn’t be saying this given we are in the business of selling costumes, but I am a firm believer in the mantra that “less consumption creates less waste”. Buy something of high quality and make it last.
· Pass it along
A well-made costume is just like any other well-made garment. It lasts and it can be passed on. I grew up with a chest full of costumes that have been passed on from my grandparents and have since been worn by my own children. If you don’t have an extended family consider selling it second hand or donating it to your local drama group or school.
With this in mind, I wish you a wonderful Halloween!
Want to read more on this? Here are some useful links:
The Independent - Halloween Costume Waste
The Fairyland Trust and Hubbub Halloween Survey 2019
Waste Managed Halloween Research
https://www.wastemanaged.co.uk/our-news/halloween/halloween-waste/
Huffington Post – Millions of Toys are binned
Greenpeace – Fighting plastic pollution
https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/tackling-plastic-pollution-with-trash-arta-look-at-our-waste-habits/