The circular economy offers solutions to reduce waste during festivities like Halloween. It is important to acquire products made from recycled materials, create new jobs focused on construction using recycled materials, and promote innovative goods that reduce environmental costs and improve the relationship with the environment. Families can take advantage of the circular economy by recycling materials, composting to nourish their gardens, and growing food in home gardens.
Danae Díaz highlights: “Consumers need to be aware of their decisions and prefer recycled products to contribute to the circular economy.” According to a study by the MacArthur Foundation, only 1% of the material used to produce clothing is recycled into new garments. Pedro Núñez Mendoza, a Circular Economy researcher at the Rosario Castellanos University in Mexico, points out that during festivities like Halloween, the consumption of single-use products increases, reflecting a problem in the current economic model.
The circular economy proposes to maintain goods and products within the economic value chain. In the case of Halloween, the use of disposable products generates a negative impact on the environment. Studies reveal that the holiday in the United Kingdom can generate up to 2,000 tons of plastic waste related to costumes. Around 82.5% of costumes contain plastic and its derivatives.
In other countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the amount of plastic waste related to costumes is also alarming. Danae Díaz emphasizes that not only costumes but also decorations, disposable utensils, and candy wrappers contribute to the environmental problem. The acquisition of products should be analyzed, opting for what is necessary and durable, and reducing the use of single-use plastic.
Awareness of the environmental impact of single-use plastic is growing. It is essential to reduce, reject, reuse, and recycle to minimize the impact of festivities like Halloween on the environment. The circular economy offers sustainable alternatives to enjoy celebrations in a more ecological and responsible way.
