Buy Nothing Day

Buy Nothing Day History

Buy Nothing Day is aimed at raising awareness of the detrimental effects of consumerism and promoting the sustainable use of resources. This day encourages individuals to collectively refrain from making purchases for a 24-hour period, highlighting the role that overconsumption plays in a multitude of environmental and social issues, such as climate change, resource depletion, and income inequality. By choosing to participate in this day, individuals take a stand against the consumer culture that often worsens these issues and demonstrate their commitment to fostering a more responsible and sustainable society.

Buy Nothing Day was first proposed in 1992 by Canadian artist Ted Dave and has since been embraced by various organizations around the world. The movement particularly speaks to American consumers, who represent approximately 5% of the global population yet account for nearly 25% of the world's annual consumption. Buy Nothing Day serves as a reminder for Americans to question the necessity of their purchases and to consider the negative consequences that may result from mass consumerism, including the exploitation of labor, the depletion of natural resources, and the generation of pollution and waste.

Buy Nothing Day is typically observed on the day after Thanksgiving, which is also known as Black Friday, one of the busiest and most heavily-promoted shopping days of the year. Instead of participating in the Black Friday sales frenzy, individuals may choose to mark Buy Nothing Day by engaging in alternative activities such as volunteering, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a day of rest. By abstaining from shopping on this day, participants demonstrate their commitment to resisting the pressures of consumerism and to supporting a more sustainable way of life.

Buy Nothing Day facts

• According to the PwC, it is estimated that consumers worldwide will spend up to an average of $1,638 during the 2025 holiday season.
• On February 28, 2025, people across the United States organized a 24-hour economic blackout, which was promoted on social media. Consumers were encouraged to refrain from shopping at large corporations such as Amazon, Walmart, and Nestlé, in order to advocate for economic justice and systemic change.
• According to a Morning Consult survey, since the pandemic in 2020 about 35% of U.S consumers have purchased less non-essential goods including beauty services, clothing, beauty products, household goods, and electronics.

In the News and Trending in the US for Buy Nothing Day

Top things to do in the US for Buy Nothing Day

• Buy nothing! Save your money this holiday season and plan a trip instead. Or spend quality time with family and friends.
• Do something that doesn't cost money. Explore the outdoors, find a movie on TV, whatever it is, resist the urge to spend.
• Participate in a Buy Nothing Day activity like credit card cut-ups, zombie walks through the mall, or observing the chaos of Black Friday.
• Try making a meal using only ingredients you already have in your kitchen. This can help minimize waste and shift focus away from consumerism.