| photography by andie furber |
Once you've roasted your pumpkin seeds and passed out the last of your Halloween candy, you're usually left with some past-due pumpkins. This year, rather than just letting ours go bad or throwing them away, we're determined to do something productive with them.
Two billion pounds of pumpkins end up in landfills every year, so instead, here are some options we're considering for our seasonal gourds.
| photography by andie furber |
Pumpkins for the People
This nonprofit diverts pumpkins to compost centers and raises awareness about food waste. Find your local dropoff location here.
Pumpkins for Pigs
Did you know farm animals love pumpkins? Me either. This nonprofit diverts your pumpkins to farms, sanctuaries, and composting centers. Find your dropoff spot here.
| photography by andie furber |
Your Local Zoo
Playing with pumpkins is excellent enrichment for the animals at your local zoo. For those local to the Bay Area, the Oakland Zoo welcomes your pumpkins after 11/1. Check with your local zoo to see if they'll take your leftovers! The animals will love it.
Make a Birdfeeder
Turns out, birds love pumpkins too! Cut your pumpkin in half horizontally and fill it with birdseed (and even seeds if you still have them).