Why I love the Buy Nothing Project
Buy Less. Share More.
Photo collage shows my client's bag of plastic hangers that someone wanted in my local Buy Nothing Group for her son's college room.
The Buy Nothing Group Project
Sometimes, there are items we would like to let go of, but they might be half-used, might be missing a few pieces, or they might be usable, but not exactly in perfect retail-ready condition. For items like these (and even items in great condition!), I highly recommend The Buy Nothing Group (BNG).
BNG is a hyper-local gifting economy via Facebook Groups. The groups are based on neighborhoods and cities, and free to join. They also have an app, but the majority of activity and participation is still happening in the Facebook Groups. You can find your local group by doing a search in Facebook Groups.
Why I love the BNG:
It is community-oriented. You are helping and pooling resources with your fellow neighbors, which is especially wonderful in building a sense of community. Members offer more than just stuff; they also bring a sense of goodwill and opportunity to help each other out.
It reduces waste. Even if the item is not in retail-ready condition (i.e. a thrift store would not be able to sell it for a profit), doesn’t mean it can’t still be used. Examples of this: miscellaneous pens, tea bags that the owner realized they weren’t a fan of, or an opened perfume.
It saves money. Items that are pre-loved are still valuable, and can prevent unnecessary purchases. You can post items to give away, but also post items that you are searching for.
It’s moderated. BNG is similar to other free-cycle groups or platforms, but I like that there are Admins who monitor postings and member behavior, and in my personal experience, its members are responsive, reliable, and respectful.
Examples of items I have gifted to my group on behalf of myself and clients (all used and/or partially open):
Plastic hangers! (See photo above - went to a mom gathering items for her son)
Miscellaneous assortment of office supplies: notebooks, pens, pencils, staplers, glue, white board, etc. (went to a local teacher)
Fabric (went to someone who made head-wraps for cancer patients)
Ferns that were slowly suffering (went to someone with a greener thumb than me)
Bag of balloons (went to someone who was hosting a birthday party that weekend)
Moving boxes (went to someone moving soon)
Examples of items I have been the grateful recipient of:
Googly eyes for a Halloween costume — I only needed 4, and they only sell them in multiples…super grateful I didn’t need to buy a pack!
Mini mason jars — I was searching for them to upcycle for my wedding
Throw pillows — I was searching for them to have on the benches at my wedding
Egg organizer container — it may sound crazy, but it has elevated my fridge experience :)
Plant pots — these kick-started our patio garden!
Moving boxes — didn’t need to purchase any boxes for our move
In addition to items, I have seen members in my group also offer lemons, plant cuttings, coupons, and even local event tickets!
The BNG is a wonderful example of how we can both take care of the Earth and each other.
✨ Have you joined your local Buy Nothing Group yet? ✨