Why Can't I Have a Polygon for My Group Map on Buy Nothing?

Overview

Buy Nothing groups are represented on maps using pins rather than polygon boundaries. This approach reflects a deliberate shift in mapping strategy designed to support inclusion, flexibility, and clarity across a wide range of communities.

Why Buy Nothing Uses Pins Instead of Polygons

The Buy Nothing Project previously experimented with multiple ways of representing groups on maps. Pins are now used consistently for all groups for the following reasons:

Accommodating Community Diversity

Buy Nothing groups vary widely in structure and purpose. Some are small and private, others are large or overlapping, and some are organized around shared identities or populations rather than geography. Fixed polygon boundaries cannot accurately represent this diversity.

Reducing Gatekeeping and Confusion

Hard-drawn boundaries can create misunderstandings about who “belongs” in a group and may lead to unnecessary gatekeeping. Moving away from polygons helps reduce exclusionary practices and supports Buy Nothing’s commitment to radical inclusion.

Clearer, More Flexible Representation

Pins placed near the center of a group’s general footprint—paired with a clear group description—provide a more accurate and flexible way to represent communities without creating rigid borders.

How Groups Appear on the Map Today

The official Buy Nothing group map is available through the Buy Nothing app and web platform.

To find groups:

  1. Sign in to the platform
  2. Open Settings (gear icon)
  3. Scroll to Social Group Listings
  4. View groups using map view or list view

Each pin links directly to the group, while the group description explains whom the community serves and how boundaries are interpreted.

Using Descriptions to Clarify Community Scope

While pins do not define strict boundaries, group descriptions provide space to explain:

  • Who the group is intended for
  • How flexible boundaries are interpreted
  • Any relevant context about community focus

This combination supports discoverability without imposing rigid geographic limits.

Summary

Buy Nothing uses map pins instead of polygons to better reflect the diversity of communities, reduce gatekeeping, and support inclusive participation. Pins paired with clear group descriptions offer a flexible, accurate way to represent groups without enforcing hard boundaries.