Is your new year’s resolution to be more sustainable? A low-buy year is one way to go about it!
Manufacturing all the extra stuff we have in our homes uses resources and produces greenhouse gas emissions. Buying less is one of the best things you can do for the planet – and you’ll save money and reduce the clutter in your home while you’re at it.
Our Waste Ed Officer Rosie has challenged herself to a low-buy year. Here are some of her top tips to get you started.
Remember, you can go as big or small as you like. Cut out all non-essential purchases or just one thing, give up shopping completely or simply go to the shops less.
Make a plan
Work out what you want to stop buying and why, and set your goal.
Rosie decided she wanted to stop “purchasing items on impulse or for a mood booster” – but she still plans to go out for meals and experiences, and enjoy travelling this year.
Make a list of things you’ll stop buying. Eg:
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Jewellery and accessories
- Homewares
- Books
It can be helpful to spend some time looking at what you already have and where you find yourself spending money to work out your weak spots.
Then make a list of acceptable purchases for the year. Eg:
- Groceries
- Medication
- Bathroom products (only when you run out)
- Gifts
Rosie wants to start a veggie garden this year, so she’s also put potting mix and compost on her acceptable purchase list.
Minimise temptation
Unsubscribe from marketing emails and unfollow any brand or influencer social media accounts so you won’t have the latest ‘must haves’ and deals pushed in front of you.
Tell a friend
Rosie has decided her low-buy year includes giving up take-away coffees – so she’s told her workmates to help keep her accountable. Tell a mate what you’re up to so they can remind and encourage you on your low-buy quest.
Find new habits
Think about when and where you usually make your purchases. Do you find yourself scrolling ASOS in front of the TV in the evening? Do you go shopping on your lunch break, or while you’re waiting to pick up the kids from school? It can also be helpful to work out the emotion behind buying. Often it’s boredom! Is there something else you could do to keep your mind occupied? Eg:
- Going for a walk on your lunch break
- Listening to a podcast or audiobook
- Doing a puzzle while you watch TV
- Catching up with a friend at home instead of at the shops
Choose alternatives
If you find yourself missing certain items that ‘spark joy’ for you, is there another way you could access them without buying them?
Try:
- Borrowing books from a friend or the library
- Renting a dress for a formal occasion
- Requesting an item from your local Buy Nothing New Facebook group
- Borrowing party supplies, camping gear and niche appliances from a thing library
Read our guide to sourcing items without buying new for more ideas!
Use what you have
You might be surprised by what you already have in your wardrobe, bathroom cabinet or stationery drawer. Before buying something new, have a good look through what you already own, and see if there’s something you can use up first.
Pause before you purchase
If you see something you absolutely must have, take a screenshot or photo, jot it down or bookmark it – then revisit it in a week and see if you still want it. More often than not, you’ll find the moment has passed and you no longer *need* to own the item.
Old habits are hard to change, so be kind to yourself if things don’t quite go according to plan. Even small changes to how much you buy can make a huge difference.
For more inspiration, check out these stories and tips from successful low-buyers: