Halloween is about dressing up in costumes, setting up scary decorations and getting candy. It can also be a great opportunity to be eco friendly. Here are some ways to reduce, reuse and recycle this year in Columbus, OH.

REDUCE

Air Pollution-When you go out with your family to trick-or-treat, leave the car at home. Enjoy the brisk air and get good exercise.

Waste-Instead of a plastic bag, use a pillowcase or cloth bag to hold all of your candy. Consolidate whenever possible. Set a trash can on your porch for empty wrappers. This will help prevent trash from being dropped around your neighborhood.

Energy-Limit the use of porch lights and decorations. Turn them on during your neighborhood’s designated holiday hours. If possible, use other sources of light such as candles or jack-o-lanterns.

REUSE

Costumes-Trade an old costume with a friend so you each have a new one. Use an older costume for a younger sibling. Use household materials to create your own. This will also help you save money. A great place to shop for Halloween in Columbus is Rag-O-Rama. They buy and sell new and recycled clothes.

Decorations-Break out last year’s spider webs and skeletons, or get creative making your own decorations. Again, use materials you already have in the house. Don’t forget to store them somewhere safe for next year. Take advantage of natural features in your yard such as trees, leaves and bushes when trying to make your house the scariest in the neighborhood.

RECYCLE

Costumes-Remember there are organizations that are always willing to accept donations. Salvation Army and Goodwill in Columbus will take all usable clothing and costumes.

Materials-Recycle and dispose of all trash and materials properly. This includes all plastic parts, accessories, paints, or other materials. For information on recyclable materials and proper disposal methods see the Columbus Department of Public Service website.