Don’t let your Halloween pumpkins haunt our environment this Halloween

October 29, 2024

As Halloween approaches, Southend-on-Sea Council City Council wants to make sure fang-tastic fun doesn’t turn into a nightmare for the environment and local wildlife.

Over the past few years, there has been an increase in old pumpkins being left in our award-winning parks and open spaces. Not only does this make the spaces unpleasant for residents and visitors, but animals like hedgehogs are likely to eat old pumpkins and it could make them sick.

Spook-tacular tips for pumpkin recycling and reuse:

Use the weekly food waste collection service to recycle your old pumpkin into electricity and fertiliser

Compost your pumpkin at home

Find fun recipes online to use the parts that can still be eaten

Cllr Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, said: “We love seeing families come together to carve pumpkins—it’s such a wonderful tradition here in England. A big thank you to everyone who disposes of their pumpkins properly!

“Sadly, some pumpkins still end up in our parks, even though there are plenty of easy ways to get rid of them. Leaving pumpkins in parks and open spaces can make local wildlife sick and attract pests. Plus, any uneaten pumpkins have to be cleaned up by our amazing parks team, who work hard to keep these areas beautiful for everyone.

“A little effort goes a long way in protecting our environment. By recycling or reusing your pumpkins, you can help reduce waste and support local wildlife. So, let’s carve out a greener future together!”

Ilana Shaw, general manager for Veolia Municipal East, said: “Southend residents can recycle their food waste whatever the season so don’t be tricked into letting Halloween pumpkins go to waste. Instead, cook yourself a treat or recycle the entire pumpkin in your blue food waste bin.

“Food waste collected by our crews in Southend is taken to a special processing plant where it is used to generate electricity and fertiliser which can be used in farming to grow more food. Residents can order a new food caddy free of charge on the MySouthend portal and we will deliver one to your doorstep.”