New statistics released by Bywaters show a 40,000-tonne increase in waste generated from Halloween-related purchases in London.
Internal processing statistics from Autumn 2022 from London recycling and resource management firm Bywaters show the waste impact of Halloween purchasing trends.
In 2022 from 23 October to 6 November, Bywaters reported a 15% increase in waste material coming into their processing site compared to the average two-week period, which it says works out to 40,000 tonnes.
As a result of the increase in waste, Bywaters has published a list of tips for a more sustainable Halloween. They include composting Pumpkins or using edible leftovers as food, repurposing clothes to create costumes, and avoiding single-use cups and cutlery.
Each year, we receive and process a significant increase in waste attributed to often one-off Halloween purchases.
Commenting on the statistics, John S Glover, Executive Chairman at Bywaters, commented: “Each year, we receive and process a significant increase in waste attributed to often one-off Halloween purchases – from single-use plastic decorations to disposable costumes.
“We encourage everyone to consider sustainable alternatives when planning their Halloween festivities, such as using reusable decorations and costumes, or creatively repurposing materials.
“It is also essential that we have this discussion about potential Halloween waste now, as the vast nature of Halloween spending – and corresponding waste increase that we see at Bywaters – will soon be followed by the Christmas and New Year period.”
