Sustainable Ideas for Fall Decor‍

Seasonal decor is a big trigger for overconsumption. A lot of seasonal decor is unsustainable because they’re made from single-use plastics and they’re made from resource-intensive manufacturing, plus they can be made from toxic chemicals. 

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Before you impulse buy fall or halloween decor, consider choosing natural, biodegradable, or reusable decorations, along with reducing overconsumption. Plus, this can lower your seasonal carbon footprint and give you opportunities to reconnect with the nature of the season.

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A great place to start could be your local Buy Nothing group, or perhaps have a Halloween decor swap with your friends. One important note to remember: avoid using synthetic spider web decor! Not only does it leavebehind lots of microplastics, birds and insects get caught up in it an often injure themselves.

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If you want to add some DIY touches to your fall festivities, here are some ideas to get you going:

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Nature-Inspired Decorations

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• Use fallen leaves, pinecones, and twigs to create rustic and natural decorations like wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces.
• Carve or paint pumpkins and gourds with spooky or fun designs to create reusable decorations.
• Dry fruits or leaves and create a garland to hang in front of windows.

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Upcycled Creations

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• Transform old jars into spooky lanterns by painting or decorating them with Halloween-themed designs.
• Repurpose old fabric or clothing to create ghostly figures or eerie tablecloths.
• Use old gauze or air-dry clay to create cute ghost toppers for battery-powered tea lights.

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Edible Decor

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• Decorate using edible items like apples, pomegranates, and nuts. These can be composted after use or you can eat them!
• Display candy in reusable containers or jars as decorations, then give them out to trick-or-treaters.

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DIY Paper Crafts

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• Create paper bats, spiders, and other creepy crawlies to hang around your home. Use recycled or sustainable paper.
• Better yet, make Halloween bunting using just some folded paper and an online pattern.
• Craft origami black cats, pumpkins, and witches for a unique touch.

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Energy-Efficient Lighting

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• For outdoor decor, look for solar-powered options if you get enough daylight in the fall.
• For plug-in decor use LED lights instead of traditional incandescent bulbs. They use less energy and last longer.
• Create a cozy and spooky atmosphere with candles made from soy or beeswax, which are more sustainable than paraffin candles.