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Still looking for a Halloween costume? Clean Energy vs. Dirty Energy Halloween Costumes!

Know what’s really scary this year? Our dependence on dirty energy sources.

We put our heads together and scoured the internet to find the best energy-themed costumes out there. So pick your team: clean energy sources (AKA the Good Guys) versus dirty energy sources (AKA the Bad Guys).

Clean energy costumes:

William the Wind Turbine: Check out this site for a great example of a wind turbine costume, complete with instructions. Not only is this kid adorable, he also handed out free CFLS!

Sally the Solar Panel: Use poster board to create a sandwich board sign (like this), but paint it or cover it with fabric so it looks like a solar panel. Since trick or treating generally takes place at night, tell people it’s your time off from your day job.

Terry the Tree: Who could be more green than Terry?! Better Homes and Gardens has this great how-to, though for those of us who aren’t Martha Stewart, it may be above our skill level.

Dirty energy costumes:
Energy Vampire: There are energy vampires all around your home, from your TV to water heater. These guys suck up a ton of energy! If you can re-use a vampire costume from a previous Halloween or a thrift store that’s great. Otherwise put on some nice digs and create a cape. Cut out energy bolts of yellow felt and attach to costume as necessary. Carry around a few “wall wart” transformers and tell people “I vant to suck your electricity!”

Calvin Coal: This could be done 2 different ways. Both start with black leggings and a black turtle neck. You can stop there and spray your hair with black hairspray and be a lump of coal. Or you can take some black poster board, wrap and staple it into a cylinder, and use ribbons as suspenders to hold your outfit up. Now you’re a smokestack!

Dirty Energy “Fat Cat” Lobbyist/Banker: Head to the thrift store and find a suit that’s a bit too big, grab a sweat suit and stuff with organic cotton batting (in the legs) or a pillow. If they have pillows for less at the thrift store purchase a few ugly ones and open them up! Re-use their insides as pants stuffing. Get whiskers, ears, and a briefcase/attaché. I also highly recommend getting gold lame fabric and making yourself a “golden parachute”. Now you’re everyone’s favorite person!

For most costume ideas, check out Inhabitat as well!

If you’re going out as a climate change costume, it’s probably a good idea to brush up on your green living tips so you can spread the word. Check out Carbonfund.org’s tips on how to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.
Happy Halloween!