October is Buy Nothing New month. Buy Nothing New is a global movement for collective, conscientious consumption. The campaign was started in Melbourne, by Tamara DiMattina, with a one-month pledge to buy nothing new (except for essential items, such as food, hygiene products and medicines).
It’s a great way to take stock of what we consume, what we purchase, and how much ‘stuff’ we fill our lives with in October and all year round.
What exactly does ‘buy nothing new’ mean?
Buying Nothing New doesn't mean you have to miss out. On the contrary, it’s all about being conscious of wasteful consumption, cutting back on stuff we don't need, and changing how we look at our existing stuff.
Are you looking for some great ideas on how to buy nothing new?
Repair or buy second-hand:
Did your handbag strap break, are your shoes falling apart, or is your belt looking worse for wear? Can you repair them? If not, there are great quality ones at your local Lifeline shop.
Don’t consume single-use plastics:
Don't buy plastic plates for parties. Get a unique op shop spread instead. House proud homeowners who want an op-shop table for the upcoming party season can upcycle and purchase second-hand table decorations from their local op-shop, second-hand market or garage sale.
One in, one out
A great way to maximise the life in ‘stuff’ is to keep it in circulation. Loads of people practice 'One in, one out’. When you buy something, replace it with something from your wardrobe you can donate to your local Lifeline Shop or swap items with a friend.
Vote with your money
You can help create a world you’d like to see. Each time you spend money, you're supporting that company and their practices. To see sustainable production, look at where your purchase comes from. Is it made locally, with good design, and built to last? Or does your purchase help a local charity or community group?
Try Swapping or Swishing
Have you considered swapping (now trendily called 'Swishing') clothes, shoes or accessories with friends and family? It's ethical, eco-fabulous, social and fun. Jess Cartner-Morley from Marie Claire UK Magazine said of Swishing, “The latest craze sweeping the country is ethical, eco-fabulous, social and fun. Welcome to the future of fashion."
Up-Cycling & Re-Cycling
Try converting waste materials or ‘useless' products into new things. For example, creating your clothes from waste fabric and making rugs and household items from old clothes or rags or Making serving platters and table decorations from op shop pieces.
Buy from Lifeline Shops - create less waste and support your favourite charity.
Shopping at Lifeline Shops reduces landfill and waste, and you can consciously spend your money and know that you are helping us save lives. Every $39 you spend in-store can answer one Lifeline Crisis Call. All proceeds from Lifeline Shops fund our local suicide prevention services in the community. Find your nearest Lifeline Shop.
Here is an excellent article from the Sydney Morning Herald on Buy Nothing New month with some more ideas on reducing your ‘stuff’!