Trick or Trash Launches Recycling Program for Halloween Candy Wrappers

Return Technologies has launched Trick or Trash, a new initiative designed to address the environmental impact of Halloween candy wrappers. The program, which aims to educate students about recycling and conservation, has been designed to be simple and effective for teachers and schools.

Americans are expected to spend $4.1 billion on Halloween candy this year, according to the National Retail Federation. Most candy wrappers are made of mixed plastic and foil that curbside recycling cannot accept, so most end up in landfills. Trick or Trash gives classrooms a simple way to collect these wrappers and a hands-on lesson in recycling and conservation.

The program, which was first launched in 2019 by the team that went on to found Return Technologies, allows teachers to register their classrooms at returntech.com/trick-or-trash. Each classroom receives a free Trick or Trash box for empty candy wrappers. The boxes are collected by teachers and returned to Return Technologies, where the wrappers are recycled.

Trick or Trash has reached schools, businesses, and community groups in all 50 states. The initiative was paused in 2024, but boxes are still available for free while supplies last. Retailers and brands interested in sponsoring the program can contact Return Technologies online.

The program operates as follows: Teachers register their classroom at returntech.com/trick-or-trash. Each classroom receives a free Trick or Trash box for empty candy wrappers. The full box is then returned to Return Technologies, where the wrappers are recycled. Trick or Trash has been successful in engaging schools and communities in recycling efforts, and the program continues to be a valuable resource for educators and environmental advocates.