Waste experts are urging UK households not to throw Halloween pumpkins into general waste bins, warning that they decompose in landfill and produce methane gas, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
Why pumpkins should not go in general waste
Carving and displaying pumpkins has become a popular Halloween tradition across the UK in recent years. According to folklore, sculpting a frightening face into a pumpkin is said to ward off evil spirits, though today it is more widely seen as a sign that a household is embracing the Halloween spirit and welcoming trick-or-treaters.
Once the festivities are over, households are being encouraged to dispose of the orange fruit responsibly. Josh Clarke, Managing Director at Clear It Waste, said: "Each Halloween, pumpkins are consistently disposed of incorrectly. Do not put pumpkins in your general household waste bin. They will decompose in the landfill and produce methane gas. This is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and is damaging for the environment."
How to dispose of pumpkins responsibly
Clarke advised: "Instead look to compost. Remove any candles or paint/decorations, and place the pumpkin in a compost bin or pile. Chopping the pumpkin into smaller pieces can also help it decompose more efficiently." He added that households could alternatively use their food waste bin, checking with their local council or recycling service to see if they offer food waste collection for organic materials like pumpkins.
When a pumpkin begins showing signs of deterioration, such as browning, mould or becoming soft, it should be disposed of promptly. This usually occurs approximately three to five days after carving, though it may last longer during colder spells.
Environmental impact and council initiatives
A pumpkin can take as long as 20 years to completely decompose in landfill, and as they break down, they emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Leaving pumpkins outside for wildlife is also inadvisable, as they can trigger digestive problems in animals and introduce harmful bacteria into the surrounding environment.
Numerous local authorities throughout the UK now urge households to reconsider before discarding pumpkins, with many operating pumpkin collection and composting initiatives. Several UK councils also permit pumpkins to be collected in food waste caddies or brown bins, though regulations may differ depending on location.
Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: "As a council, we are committed to reducing waste and making it as easy as possible for residents to recycle more. With weekly food caddy and brown bin collections now in place through Simpler Recycling, residents have a straightforward way to dispose of their Halloween pumpkins responsibly."
Families are also being encouraged to make the most of pumpkins rather than discarding them immediately after Halloween, presenting an opportunity to turn them into dishes such as soups or pies, while pumpkin seeds can be roasted to create a nutritious snack. Ross added: "Whether you turn your pumpkin into a meal or contribute to turning them into compost, we can make Halloween environmentally friendly as well as fun."
