COMMUNITIES across the city and county are being urged to help prevent food and household waste this Halloween.
A 'pumpkin smash' event will take place at Stokes Wood Allotments, in Stokes Drive in Leicester on 12 November, where people are invited to bring along their carved pumpkins for composting.
It’s estimated that 22.2 million pumpkins will be binned in the UK this Halloween – but the flesh, seeds and even the stringy bits can be used to serve up some delicious treats instead. Using battery-powered tea lights keeps the inside fresh enough to eat later, and if it can’t be eaten, it can be composted.
However, it’s not just food waste that increases at this time of year. Two out of every five Halloween costumes get thrown away after just one wear. This means an estimated seven million items of clothing are sent to landfill every year in the UK.
Residents are encouraged to make their own costumes from household items, buy pre-loved outfits and ensure old costumes get a second lease of life by donating them to charity or re-use shops after the spooky season.
Councillor Adam Clarke, Leicester’s deputy city mayor for transport, clean air and the climate emergency, said: “It’s a surprising fact that the majority of food waste in the UK comes from households, not restaurants, businesses or even supermarkets. The average family of four can save just over £60 per month by reducing their food waste.
“Across Leicester, we have thousands of dedicated allotment-growers who are committed to reducing food waste, so it’s great to see this event happening that will help to spread that message.
"We’re keen to encourage people to recycle more, and we offer discounted composting bins through www.getcomposting.com .”
The pumpkin smash event takes place between 10.30 and 12.30 on Saturday 12 November, with the pumpkin remains being used to improve the allotment soil and grow food. Children are welcome to join in and have a ‘smashing’ time.
To find delicious pumpkin recipes, visit https://www.hubbub.org.uk/how-to-eat-pumpkin
For more details about the event at Stokes Wood allotment, visit www.carryoncomposting.com or email carryoncomposting1@gmail.com
To find your nearest recycling and household waste site, Leicester city residents should visit www.leicester.gov.uk/recycling and county residents www.leicestershire.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/waste-and-recycling
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