According to the Sept./Oct issue of Green American (GreenAmerica.org), Halloween is a $6 billion/yr industry in the U.S., so by making green choices you support green businesses, a healthy environment, and social justice for workers. How?

• One way is by supporting organic candy companies that support fair trade. Did you know that Hershey, Cadbury and Nestle all have ties to child labor in the production of their cocoa? This is a sad side of chocolate that can be avoided by purchasing chocolate from companies such as Divine Chocolate, Green & Blacks, or Equal exchange instead. Or give out small “treasures” other than candy.
• Also, in terms of protecting your own kids, make sure to use nontoxic face paint such as Terra Firma. A 2009 Campaign for Safe Cosmetics study found that 10 out of 10 children’s face paints tested contained at least trace levels of lead. (safecosmetics.org)
• Consider getting rid of those plastic trick or treat baskets—the plastic will be around long after your child wants to use it anymore, so cloth sacks are better.
• Finally, another way to be green on Halloween is to swap costumes; Sat. October 13, 2012 is National Costume Swap Day!

For more green Halloween ideas and info on costume swaps in your area, see GreenHalloween.org.