Pumpkin potential: Creative and eco‑friendly post-Halloween ideas
Every year after Halloween, many wonder what to do with the leftover pumpkins. Instead of throwing them in the trash, it's worth exploring ways to use them ecologically and creatively. There are actually quite a few options.
Halloween wouldn't be the same without pumpkins, one of the most popular symbols of the celebration. This orange vegetable is traditionally used to ward off evil spirits, but it also symbolizes eternal life, resurrection, or fertility. A pumpkin in the window is also a welcoming sign for children in costumes. It indicates that they can expect treats from our home.
Every year at the end of October, our homes are decorated with charming and often scary pumpkin lanterns. However, once Halloween is over, we face the question: what do we do with all the pumpkins? Instead of letting them fill up the garbage bins, there are many potential uses for them. We offer some ideas on making the most of these autumn treasures while being mindful of the environment.
Although it may seem like a good idea to leave discarded pumpkins in the forest as "food" for wildlife, experts strongly advise against this practice. Environmental organizations such as the UK's Woodland Trust highlight that leaving pumpkins in natural environments can harm wildlife. While pumpkin flesh is rich in sugars, it's not a natural component of the diet of many forest animals and can be lethal for hedgehogs, for instance.
Moreover, pumpkins can attract unwanted rat colonies and disrupt sensitive forest ecosystems. If we wish to protect our forests and their inhabitants, we must consider alternative options.
Safe and creative uses for pumpkins
Instead of discarding pumpkins, we can find inspiration in the kitchen. Pumpkin flesh is an excellent base for preparing various dishes, ranging from creamy soup and fries to delicious baked goods. Both adults and children love pumpkin treats, and utilizing leftovers aligns with the zero-waste philosophy.
It's important to note that pumpkin is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, C, and PP, as well as magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and calcium. It is also low in calories, with 100 grams containing only 28 calories.
We don't need to limit ourselves to culinary uses. Pumpkins' decorative aspect extends beyond Halloween. They can be used to create natural decorations for late autumn, adding a warm atmosphere to our homes.
