Evergreen Goodwill of Northwest Washington offers a simple, sustainable way to stay on track by shopping secondhand and taking on the ultimate challenge, “Buy Nothing New” in 2026.
Every January, millions of people set resolutions to improve their lives-whether it’s getting fit, eating better, or trying something new. But sticking to those goals often comes with a price tag, and most resolutions fizzle out within weeks. Evergreen Goodwill of Northwest Washington offers a simple, sustainable way to stay on track: shop secondhand and consider the ultimate challenge: “Buy Nothing New” in 2026. Shopping secondhand supports the most popular resolution of all – saving money – while reducing waste and protecting the planet.
Affordable Support for Popular Resolutions:
- Back to the Gym: Find gently used athletic wear, sneakers, and accessories for a fraction of retail prices.
- Eat Healthier: Meal prep is easier with thrifted slow cookers, storage containers, and cookbooks.
- Build a Morning Routine: Journals, mugs, cozy lounge pants, and even meditation cushions make mornings something to look forward to.
- Get Outside More: Gear up for Pacific Northwest adventures with rain jackets, boots, hiking poles, and even skis or skates.
- Start a New Hobby: Explore sewing, painting, or music without draining your savings-if the hobby doesn’t stick, you haven’t invested much.
The Ultimate Resolution: Buy Nothing New
A November 2025 survey shows that 70% of people making financial resolutions aim to save more money. Choosing pre-owned items is one of the easiest ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality or style. Plus, buying used reduces demand for new manufacturing and keeps goods out of landfills. According to WRAP UK, purchasing a used item instead of new can cut its carbon footprint by up to 82%.
Four Tips to Succeed at “Buy Nothing New”:
- Explore thrift stores regularly: Visit your local Goodwill for all your needs first.
- Join local groups: Online communities and swaps are great for finding pre-owned items.
- Get creative with DIY: Repurpose or upcycle items you already own instead of buying new.
- Celebrate small wins: Track your savings, share your progress, and inspire others to join you!
Ready to make 2026 the year you save money and make a difference? Start your “Buy Nothing New” journey at your local Evergreen Goodwill store or online at evergreengoodwill.org.
Evergreen Goodwill of Northwest Washington
https://evergreengoodwill.org | @evergrngoodwill
Evergreen Goodwill is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps people get jobs through free job training, education, and career placement services. Founded in 1923, the organization operates 23 nonprofit thrift stores and donation centers, five job training centers, and employs more than 2,000 people across King, Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, and Kitsap counties. Because jobs change lives. To learn more about Evergreen Goodwill of Northwest Washington, see our website and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
All images courtesy of Evergreen Goodwill of Northwest Washington.
Tags: Accessories, apparel, Buy Nothing New, career placement, clothes, clothing, clothing industry, clothing waste, Community, culture, DIY, donation, donation center, education, Evergreen Goodwill of Northwest Washington, fabric waste, fashion, fashion and lifestyle, fashion industry, Goodwill, home decor, job training, menswear, nonprofit, nonprofit organization, pre-loved, pre-owned, preloved fashion, retail, secondhand shopping, shop local, shopping, store, style, support, sustainability, Sustainable, textile waste, textiles, thrift store, thrifting, Top, upcycle, Washington, womenswear
Share this page
