Is It True That Buy Nothing Facebook Groups Are Being Shut Down?

Overview

Questions occasionally arise about whether Buy Nothing Facebook groups are being forced to close or move to the Buy Nothing app. This article clarifies Buy Nothing’s position.

Are Buy Nothing Facebook Groups Being Shut Down?

No. There is no plan to shut down, remove, or force the closure of official, registered Buy Nothing Facebook groups.

Buy Nothing Facebook groups remain a vital part of the ecosystem supported by the Buy Nothing Project and will continue to be supported.

Ongoing Support for Facebook Groups

Buy Nothing continues to actively support Facebook-based communities by:

  • Helping establish new Buy Nothing Facebook groups
  • Supporting thousands of volunteer admins worldwide
  • Providing free training through the Buy Nothing Academy
  • Offering assistance through volunteer and support channels

This work continues daily and remains an important part of the organization’s mission.

Why Group Registration Matters

Groups using the Buy Nothing name are asked to register. This practice has been in place since 2014 and exists to:

  • Protect the Buy Nothing mission and values
  • Ensure authenticity and alignment with the gift economy model
  • Help communities maintain a consistent, trusted Buy Nothing experience

Registration supports clarity, integrity, and long-term sustainability across communities.

Why the Buy Nothing App Exists

The Buy Nothing web and mobile platform was created as an expansion, not a replacement, of Facebook groups.

Purpose of the App

Access Beyond Facebook

Many people are not on Facebook but still want to participate in local gift economies. The app provides a way to join Buy Nothing without relying on social media.

Purpose-Built Functionality

The app is designed specifically for gifting and sharing, allowing features that Facebook cannot support, such as:

  • Boundary-free participation
  • Flexible sharing from multiple locations
  • Platform-specific tools for giving and asking

Summary

Buy Nothing Facebook groups are not being shut down. They continue to be supported alongside the Buy Nothing app, which was created to expand access, inclusion, and innovation within the global Buy Nothing movement.