Australians Embrace Spooky Halloween, but Waste Haunts the Environment

As of October 24th, 2025, Halloween's popularity in Australia continues to soar, with one in five people embracing the spooky spirit. The annual festival has become a multigenerational community celebration, with nationwide spending expected to hit $500 million this year.

However, the abundance of costumes, decorations, and treat wrappers used for the holiday is leading to significant waste and litter, posing a wicked problem for the environment and wildlife. Plastics make up 80% of the litter collected during Clean Up Australia's annual count, with packets, wrappers, and plastic bags consistently among the top three items found in public spaces.

To address this issue, some councils are taking action. The City of Marion in Adelaide's south-west, for example, will actively remove artificial spider webs from footpaths, nature strips, and public land, alongside a public education campaign asking residents not to use them. Ecologists warn that these synthetic webs can be deadly for birds, insects, and small mammals, as they can become entangled or suffocated.

Experts recommend simple tricks to turn this cursed event into a frightfully good "Hallow-green." Suggestions include using reusable treat containers, making costumes from thrift store finds or household items, and choosing recyclable or organic decorations. By embracing these sustainable practices, Australians can enjoy the spooky festivities while minimizing their environmental impact.