From costumes to candy to decor, we spend a lot of money on Halloween. In fact, we're projected to shell out $5.8 billion on the holiday this year. All of that money could have a huge impact if consumers focused spending on eco-friendly options. In fact, a lot of environmentally friendly Halloween ideas can help you save a buck!

Treats

Conventional Halloween candy is full of high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors. This year, why not splurge on some healthier options?

No, you don't have to be that house that hands out tiny boxes of raisins (though, I'll admit that I loved those as a kid). Fruit leathers and organic candies are kid-friendly treats that you can feel better about giving out.

Having a Halloween party? You can make fun home made treats like popcorn balls, toasted pumpkin seeds, and candied apples. Most parents won't let their kids accept home made treats when trick-or-treating, though, so you might want to save those for parties only.

If you want to get really creative, Green Halloween suggests giving out treasures instead of treats. Just make sure the treasures you choose aren't plastic tchochkes that are just going to end up in the trash.

Costumes

Do you really have to spend big bucks on a brand new costume this year? Often, the best costumes are the ones folks make themselves (cardboard box robot costume, anyone?) or piece together with thrift store finds.

If you have your heart set on a pre-made costume, you can look into renting instead of buying. The greenest option I've seen along these lines is the National Halloween Costume Swap. On October 9th, Green Halloween and Kiwi Magazine are going to be hosting costume swaps where folks can trade last year's costume for one that's new to them.

Decorations

You don't have to hit the party store for awesome Halloween decor! In fact, with a little crafty love you can whip up unique, home made decorations that will last longer than those store bought options.

With just some fabric scraps and ribbon, you can churn out yards of spooky garland.

Not into sewing? No worries! PiIllage your recycle bin for cardboard, add some glitter glue, and you've got got everything you need to make Halloween-themed decorations like bats, cats, and witches' hats!

Do you have any tips for greening things up this Halloween? I'd love to hear your ideas in the comments!

Image Credits:
Cardboard Bats. Photo by Becky Striepe
Halloween Costumes. Creative Commons photo by cesarastudillo