WITH Hallowe’en fast approaching, Forest of Dean District Council is encouraging residents to think twice before tossing out their pumpkins.

While pumpkins and gourds are biodegradable and more environmentally friendly than plastic decorations, too many are still ending up in the bin once the spooky season is over.

Councillor Andy Moore, Portfolio Holder for Waste and Recycling, said: “Pumpkins and gourds make biodegradable seasonal decorations that are better for the environment than plastic ones.

But once Hallowe’en is over, too many are ending up in the bin. We’re encouraging residents to think of their pumpkin as food as well as a decoration. They’re nutritious and there are lots of ways they can be used.”

Residents are being urged to consider smaller varieties bred for flavour, which can be cooked and enjoyed in soups, curries, risottos, pasta dishes, and even desserts.

For pumpkins that aren’t used in cooking, the council reminds people they can be recycled through the weekly kerbside food waste collection. Whole pumpkins can be left on top of caddies or cut up and placed inside after removing any decorations and candles.

Moore added that while food waste peaks at Hallowe’en, it is a year-round issue. “Analysis of the black bins in our district shows that a quarter of the rubbish collected from homes by weight is food, half of which is still in its original packaging. Globally, a third of all food produced is wasted, at a huge cost to our planet.”

The council also warns against leaving pumpkins out for wildlife. While well-intentioned, large amounts of pumpkin can be harmful, particularly for hedgehogs, which may suffer dehydration or stomach issues if they eat them.

For ideas on no-carve decorating, cooking recipes, or ordering food waste caddies, residents can visit the council’s website.