Pumpkin waste rises as Halloween decorations shift from food to aesthetics

Pumpkin use has shifted from simple Halloween decorations to elaborate displays, with many pumpkins now serving aesthetic purposes rather than being eaten or repurposed. This trend has led to significant waste, with 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkin flesh rotting in landfills annually. The environmental impact of this waste is notable, as decomposing pumpkins contribute to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. Each pumpkin requires 16 gallons of water to grow, adding to the resource strain. Alternatives to disposal include composting, feeding animals, cooking, and crafting. These options can reduce waste and benefit local ecosystems, while also providing creative uses for leftover pumpkins.