Can we go a year without buying anything new??

We are about to find out! We have pondered this for a while as to whether we could do it (or at least be brave enough to attempt it) and today, we have decided 2010 is the year. Unfortunately, because we decided today, we cannot do the preemptive shop - which is kind of cheating anyway but must be very good for the psyche.


We have added an additional exception - we can buy something new if second hand would devalue or compromise the asset or simply not make sense. A for instance is we need to replace the boiler in our house. It would make more sense to install a new, energy efficient one rather then something second hand.

Here is the scope. Wish us well...


The Compact is a social and environment movement where members promise not to buy anything new for a year. It was started in San Francisco. The movement began as a challenge among 10 friends in 2006.
Goals of The Compact:

1. to go beyond recycling in trying to counteract the negative global environmental and socio-economic impacts of U.S. consumer culture, to resist global corporatism, and to support local businesses, farms, etc;
2. to reduce clutter and waste in our homes (as in trash Compact-er);
3. to simplify our lives (as in Calm-pact)

Members of The Compact are only allowed to buy underwear, food, and health and safety items such as brake fluid and toilet paper. During their one year vow the Compact members must shop only at second hand stores. They can also barter or simply share with each other for goods they want.