Back in 2012, on my 30th birthday, I embarked on a full year of buying nothing new. I was a much more impulsive spender back then, and it definitely gave me a lot to reflect on as far as my spending habits went. You can find those writings on my (much older) blog here.
This year, the same idea has been wiggling it's way into my mind and heart, as we see such an intense surge of waste and hyper-production through an endless stream of apps and ads. Back in 2012, I was inspired by watching Manufactured Landscapes, a documentary by Edward Burtynsky. It has lived in my mind since then and I highly recommend it. Recently, the Netflix Documentary, Buy Now, came out and revolves around Amazon.com's methods of convincing us to buy...well, everything.
So....why do a Buy Nothing New Year? Realistically, much of what we buy and think we need can be found second-hand. The rate of production, especially of fashion, is astronomical and far exceeds what we as humans can consume. The ramifications of this on the environment, as well as on humanity, is staggering.
Additionally, setting up parameters like buying nothing new for an entire year is a great way to really reflect on how we buy, WHY we buy, and what we truly need. Plus, it's a very good way to save money.
Now, I'm not a huge shopper as it is. After my first Buy Nothing New year, and years of working retail, I have a difficult time justifying buying anything new and at retail prices. However, I will still set out some rules for my buy nothing year. Maybe it will inspired others, who knows!
A Buy Nothing New Year - Rules and Exceptions - Jan 1, 2026 - Jan 1, 2027:
Goal: To source as much as I can second-hand. If I cannot find something second-hand, I will try to source them from small businesses and local if I can. That includes:
- clothing
- hiking and outdoor equipment
- tools
- housewares
- electronics (many can be found refurbished)
- art supplies
- gifts
- books
- garden supplies like pots
Exceptions:
- undergarments
- jeans and shoes (I will look at sources like poshmark, but I generally have not had good luck with second hand jeans or shoes.)
- safety equipment
- household goods like lightbulbs, toiletries, etc.
- business items (stones, metal, tools)
- car repair items, tires, etc.
- home renovation supplies - wood, screws/nails, drywall, etc. although we will look for some parts at rebuild it stores.
- eyewear (I will have my current glasses frames re-fit with new lenses, and I will look for sunglasses second-hand but want to have the exception just in case).
- Souvenirs from Australia (though I have found some fun pieces at thrift shops there before)
- travel necessities - chargers, converters, etc.
- pet toys/necessities
While there are quite a few exceptions, the general rule is to try to source everything second-hand first, then use an exception if needed (hygiene items excluded). The same goes for broken items - I will try to repair first, source second-hand after that, and replace if needed.
What do you think of a Buy Nothing New Year? I have seen some people making goals for "Buy Nothing" years where they set a goal of buying nothing of certain items. Would you be able to do this?
I will be sure to share my second hand treasures as I go through this year!