West Oxfordshire residents urged to make Halloween more treat than trick for the planet

Councillor Lidia Arciszewska, Executive Member for Environment, said: “Halloween is a fun time for families, but it can also create a huge amount of waste – from uneaten pumpkins to single-use costumes. We’re asking everyone to think twice this year and try out some simple ways to make the occasion more planet-friendly. Whether that’s cooking your pumpkin, reusing decorations or choosing second-hand costumes, small changes can make a big difference.”

Pumpkins are at the heart of many Halloween traditions, but sadly millions end up in the bin each year. The environmental charity Hubbub estimates that over half of the 30 million pumpkins bought for Halloween in the UK won’t be eaten. Yet pumpkins are a nutritious, versatile food, perfect for roasting, soups or even baking.

This year, residents are being reminded that the flesh from carving pumpkins is edible, though varieties grown specifically for cooking tend to be tastier. Keeping your pumpkin whole and decorating the outside instead of carving it is another great way to make it last longer and reduce food waste. However, do make sure to use your pumpkin in a timely manner before it goes bad. If your pumpkin can’t be eaten, the council encourages composting it at home or using the weekly food waste collection.

To help residents make the most of their pumpkins, we’re sharing one of many easy and tasty recipes:

Roasted Pumpkin and Chickpea Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 small pumpkin, peeled and chopped
• 1 tin chickpeas, drained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tin chopped tomatoes
• 200ml coconut milk
• A handful of fresh spinach (optional)

Method:

1. Roast the pumpkin in a little oil at 180°C for 25–30 minutes until soft.
2. In a pan, fry the onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add curry powder and stir for a minute.
4. Add the roasted pumpkin, chickpeas, chopped tomatoes and coconut milk. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
5. Stir in the spinach just before serving.

Serve with rice or warm flatbreads for a warming autumn meal the whole family will love.

Halloween outfits are another major source of waste. Many costumes are made from plastic-based materials and are worn only once before being discarded. Instead, families are being encouraged to get crafty with homemade costumes or check out charity shops and online marketplaces like Vinted where you can grab a pre-loved bargain. Alternatively, clothing can be recycled by placing it in a tied carrier bag next to your recycling bin on collection day.

By thinking ahead and making a few swaps, residents can enjoy a spooktacular Halloween that’s lighter on the planet and full of flavour.

Hubbub UK have created a recipe book full of delicious ideas to make the most of every bit of your pumpkin - from soups and curries to bakes and snacks. Take a look at additional recipes here: https://issuu.com/hubbubuk/docs/recipebook_pumpkinrescue_a4_oct2022?fr=sZGJkYjUyNjM3NTM