Green Halloween

It's that time of year again when leaves begin to fall and Jack-o-lanterns are popping up everywhere.

Halloween is one of those occasions that really seems to have grown in popularity in recent years. With so much going into the festivities I like to look at it also as an opportunity to apply some ideas that can help the environment.

So why not have a green Halloween? Here are some tips that can help you reduce, reuse and recycle as you preparing for those ghost and goblins.

First, if you're looking for a costume, instead of buying one, make one from old clothes or other materials around the house. And let children use a cloth bag or pillowcase for trick or treating, these will hold up better than a throw away.

And if you're going to throw a party, try to use only reusable materials. Or if you have to buy something, see if its contents are recyclable.  To complete the cycle, we should purchase products that are made from recycled materials.

When it comes to old Jack himself, use this Halloween as an opportunity to start a compost bin. Just cut your pumpkin up into small pieces and layer it with fallen leaves. As the mixture decomposes, you'll have a great soil conditioner for your garden next spring.

Now these principles for having a greener Halloween can be applied throughout the year, just remember the key is to reduce, reuse and recycle.