If we talk about a more sustainable Carnival, your first reaction might be: “Are they trying to spoil the Carnival fun too?” Calm down! It's not like that at all! The fun stays, the negative impact is what needs to go away.

Carnival is a centuries-old tradition that, in Portugal, has evolved into a festival with vibrant parades, masquerade balls, and popular celebrations. But, like many modern festivals, Carnival has come to generate a considerable environmental and social impact, with tons of waste, disposable costumes, and questionable practices.

How Can We Improve?

The good news is that it’s possible to enjoy Carnival without harming the planet or other people! Here are some ideas:

• Improvise your costume: unleash your creativity and use what you have at home! Besides saving money, you avoid disposable materials.

• Organize a costume swap: if you don’t want to repeat a look, why not swap it with someone? Encourage a network of swaps in your city (visionary!)

• Mask workshop: make a fun costume-making event! Gather a group where everyone can contribute with their talent, be it drawing, vision, crafts, sewing, etc.

• Explore Second-Hand Stores: vintage and second-hand stores are true treasures of clothes and accessories. Dive into this world and be surprised!

• Avoid Feathers: Carnival is about joy, and that shouldn’t come at the cost of animal suffering. No one has to suffer for you to have fun and be at your best!

• Choose Biodegradable Glitter: traditional glitter is made of microplastics that harm the environment. Fortunately, there are biodegradable options made from cellulose or natural minerals.

• Bring Your Own Cup: our extra tip is to use a metal mug with a handle attached to a string. Besides being practical, it helps reduce waste and keeps your drink cool for longer.

• Make Your Own Confetti: instead of buying confetti, use a hole punch to reuse fallen dry leaves, newspapers, or colored papers you have at home.

Awareness Goes Beyond the Environment

Having a more conscious attitude towards our environment is also about respect for people and cultures. Before choosing your costume, reflect:

Are you representing a culture disrespectfully or stereotypically?

• Is the disguise based on the identity of a historically marginalized people?

• Indigenous people are not costumes! Blackface is never acceptable! Ethnicities, religions, and cultural traits are not accessories for a party day.

• Avoid costumes that reinforce gender stereotypes or ridicule gender identities.

Sustainable Carnival: Starts With You, Spreads to Everyone!

Change begins with small individual attitudes, but change happens with collective action: infect your network, your community, your city, go out and have fun guilt-free!

Written by Ana Reis