FYI Ashland

Halloween has transformed from a spiritual celebration of the harvest and a time to pay respect to departed relatives into a more lighthearted day for kids and adults alike. Billions of dollars are spent every year on everything from Halloween candy to costumes. Halloween may not be the most eco-friendly day of the year, but there are ways to make this beloved holiday a little less taxing on the environment.

Fall and winter can be tough on your home and your wallet. As temperatures drop, chances are your furnace will be working overtime. This results in two things - greater energy consumption and higher heating bills. In fact, costs associated with heating and cooling a home year-round typically comprise two-thirds of the average energy bill.

Autumn is upon us, and with the change of seasons comes the fall to-do list that must be completed before the arrival of winter weather. Many outdoor jobs are best completed before temperatures drop, while others can be tackled indoors to help save energy and prepare for increased time spent inside the home.

Candy, costumes and treats may add up to fun on Halloween, but such staples also contribute to an abundance of waste come the end of October. For those who embrace eco-friendly lifestyles, the thought of disposable or single-use Halloween paraphernalia can be even scarier than the costumed creatures going door-to-door.

 

Those with eco-conscious ideals need not compromise Halloween fun in the name of protecting the planet. They need only make some easy adaptations to some of their favorite Halloween traditions.