Halloween is a time for the imagination to run wild—and with just a little creative imagination the festivities can be less scary for the environment.

In the United States alone, consumers are expected to spend $7.4 billion this year on this ghostly celebration, according to the National Retail Federation. And Halloween has become a global phenomenon, so all those orange plastic pumpkins and disposable costumes are contributing to more waste worldwide.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to make your celebration more environmentally friendly and get your family thinking about practical tips to take care of the planet:

Think homemade: Making your own Halloween decorations is far kinder to the environment than buying all that plastic, and it can also turn into family fun. Instead of a synthetic store-bought costume, get out the sewing machine or put together an original ensemble from your own wardrobe.

Exchange looks: Maybe the perfect costume is not in your closet but around the corner. Invite your neighbors, friends, and relatives for a community costume swap. It’s a creative way to recycle and a good excuse to get together.

Bag some candy: Forget those plastic pumpkins for collecting Halloween loot. Look around the house for baskets, tote bags, or other attractive candy receptacles for trick-or-treating.

Choose organic treats: Many companies now specialize in healthier alternatives with fewer preservatives and artificial dyes than traditional candy.

Get some exercise: Leave the car behind and do your neighborhood trick-or-treating on foot. You’ll not only burn more calories and less gas; you can also show off your own costume and get a closer look at everyone else’s.

Make sweeping changes: If you’re planning a party or getting ready for trick-or-treaters, you may need to clear the sidewalk of leaves. Instead of using a weed blower or a hose, wasting fuel or water, make like a witch and grab a broom. And remember that the leaves can be added to a compost pile.

Use alternative lighting: Solar or LED garden lights can light the way for neighborhood trick-or-treaters—and save you money in the long term.

Repurpose that pumpkin: An estimated 1.4 billion pounds of pumpkins are produced in the United States every year. If you end up carving one for Halloween, turn it into compost for your garden. And remember that the seeds can be toasted and turned into tasty snacks.

Be a responsible host: If you’re hosting a party, don’t forget to place recycling containers in strategic spots where your guests can deposit their empty bottles, cans, and other recyclables.

Donate your costume: Once the festivities are over, donate your costume instead of tossing it. Maybe a school, local theater group, or neighborhood recreation center could give it new life.

Be a responsible host: If you’re hosting a party, don’t forget to place recycling containers in strategic spots where your guests can deposit their empty bottles, cans, and other recyclables.

Donate your costume: Once the festivities are over, donate your costume instead of tossing it. Maybe a school, local theater group, or neighborhood recreation center could give it new life.