In the latest episode of Ours To Protect, Orla and her daughter Hannah meet Joanne Denton from Sew Fun Studios in Wexford Town.
Sew Fun Studios, a hub for sewing enthusiasts led by expert Joanne Denton, promotes accessible sewing skills and champions green Halloween costumes through upcycling. This reflects a broader trend of embracing sustainability in festive seasons. The studio offers workshops for all skill levels, building a community of environmentally conscious creators.
Community initiatives
In Abbeyside, County Waterford, the Tournore Court Resident’s Association launched a reware and rescare initiative.
They’ve set up a pop-up shop in Dungarvan library, offering pre-loved Halloween costumes, and introduced party kits for rent, complete with reusable party wear.
Kira Conway, a representative from the association, emphasized the significance of these initiatives, stating: “These are all little steps that we can take to play our part in terms of trying to combat carbon emissions.”
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Did you know?
Halloween constitutes a significant economic activity—in 2017, Irish consumers spent a total of 65 million euros on Halloween festivities.
What can you do this Halloween?
- Do It Yourself
Encourage friends and family to join in on the eco-friendly fun by organising DIY costume parties where everyone creates their own costumes from sustainable materials. Get creative with old clothes, accessories, and household items to design a unique and eco-friendly outfit. - Upcycle
Visit thrift stores or organise a costume swap with friends. Give pre-loved clothing a new life by upcycling them into a fantastic Halloween costume. - Rent or borrow
Consider renting a costume for a one-time event or borrowing from friends. This reduces the demand for new costumes and promotes a sharing economy. - Natural fabrics
Choose costumes made from natural, biodegradable fabrics like cotton or linen. Avoid synthetic materials, as they contribute to environmental pollution. - Face paint over masks
Instead of using disposable masks, consider face paint as a creative and eco-friendly alternative. Choose non-toxic, eco-friendly face paint options. - Donate or recycle
After Halloween, consider donating your costume to local charities, schools, or community centres. Alternatively, recycle materials if possible. - Educate
Share your eco-friendly costume choices on social media, raising awareness about sustainable Halloween practices. Encourage others to adopt environmentally conscious habits during festive seasons.
Small actions collectively make a significant impact. By choosing eco-friendly and sustainable options, you contribute to a greener and more sustainable Halloween celebration.