I’m a Frugal Shopping Expert: 5 Reasons To Join a Buy Nothing Group
Written by
Aja McClanahan
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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The Buy Nothing Project started in 2013 as a grassroots initiative by two friends who sought to create a hyper-local gift economy that would promote community connections and reduce waste. The concept was simple yet powerful: neighbors would share unwanted items, services, and skills for free to minimize the average consumer’s environmental footprint while fostering a spirit of generosity.
Initially launched on Bainbridge Island, Washington, the project quickly gained traction and spread globally, with thousands of Buy Nothing (BN) groups forming in communities worldwide. Presently, the movement operates primarily through Facebook groups, where members can post offers and requests.
Ready to learn more about this movement and how it can impact your life? If you’d like to know why you should join your local BN group, here are some reasons to consider.
Benefits of Participating in a Buy Nothing Group
1. Environmental impact
Buy Nothing groups can reduce waste by promoting the reuse and sharing of items that might otherwise end up in a landfill. Also, by circulating used goods within the community, these groups decrease the demand for new products. Ultimately, this can lower consumers’ carbon footprints since fewer resources are used in manufacturing and transportation.
Kara Perez is a sustainable money expert and the founder of Go Bravely. She’s been participating in BN groups for five years and says her main motivation to participate is “keeping usable items out of landfills.” She explains, “Americans throw away so much stuff all the time –clothing, silverware, technology–often things that will last another ten years. It kills me to see people waste both their money and these items by simply trashing them.”
2. Financial benefits
Buy Nothing group offers allow you to acquire and dispose of items in an economical way. Members receiving free goods can save money by not having to buy them, and those giving them away can avoid trips to drop off unwanted goods or having to pay for trash out service to clean their homes.
Kara Perez estimates she’s saved at least $1,000 by participating in BN groups over the years. She says, “I have never gotten anything hugely expensive, but rather lots of small things that were in the $20-$50 range.” She also notes neat hauls of acquaintances, “A lot of my mom’s friends have gotten most of their newborn items from BN groups. One friend got a playpen, all her onesies, and some wooden toys from her BN group.”
3. Community building
One of the surprising aspects of BN groups is the sense of community that they created. Participants don’t just get “stuff,” but they also share stories, advice, and support, which can build trust and strengthen social bonds in local communities. Many BN group participants report forming lasting friendships and feeling part of a truly supportive network.
4. Inexpensive decluttering
Between paying for a dumpster or a professional organizer, you could end up spending a lot to declutter your home. A BN group allows you to get rid of unwanted items without having spring for these costs. Though it may take longer to clean your home with BN groups, for some, the cost savings could be worth it.
5. Access to unique items and great deals
Buy Nothing groups can often give participants access to unique items like handcrafted pieces or antique heirlooms. Sometimes, you might just score a really nice find and the perfect price: free! Kara Perez recounts the time she found a few great deals she’d likely not get anywhere else, “I got a beautiful J Crew dress that retailed for $200 from a BN group that I wore to my friend’s wedding! I also got a crock pot, which I use more frequently than the dress.”
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