Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. The Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center (GEHC) is taking that phrase and applying it to Halloween, according to a news release.

“Historically, Halloween is a holiday that is big on consumption.  Each year, kids need new costumes and accessories.  The GEHC wants families to consider reducing their consumption by participating in a costume swap,” said Jason West, director of programming and development.

As a part of the national Green Halloween initiative, the GEHC encourages people to reuse, borrow, trade, or purchase used or do-it-yourself costumes and decorations. Green Halloween got its start in Seattle in 2007 and has spread across the country.

“During the month of October, people can drop off old costumes, masks, and accessories in the GEHC lobby. Visitors are encouraged to donate, swap, or grab a new to you costume for your ‘green’ ghouls,” added West.

The costume swap will kick off on October 13, 2012, from 1:00pm-4:00pm, and continue each Saturday, from 10:00am-4:00pm, until Halloween. Currently, there is a wide selection of great costumes available for kids of all ages.

“The GEHC staff is so excited to see so many costumes coming into the building. People are really getting into the spirit of reusing and recycling costumes that have only been worn a few times,” added West.

Another way to get into the “eek-o-friendly” spirit is to “green” your spooky holiday by choosing healthy treats for the trick or treaters instead of the traditional candy.

“Going green means making healthy choices for both the Earth and people. Consider treats like organic candy or honey sticks. Giving out collectable treasures like tumbled rocks, coins, bubbles, or art supplies is another way to make Halloween a little more interesting and a little less about candy,” added West.

 There is no charge to drop off or look through costumes in the GEHC lobby. For more information about the Green Halloween initiative, the costume swap, or the GEHC, please visit www.gwinnettEHC.org.