freecycle

Freecycle, also known as The Freecycle Network, is a grassroots nonprofit movement that promotes reuse and waste reduction by connecting people who want to give away items for free with those who need them. It operates primarily through local volunteer-led groups that run on Freecycle websites and mailing lists.

The network was founded in 2003 by Deron Beal in Tucson, Arizona, and grew into a global system of free giving communities. Local groups are typically managed by volunteers who oversee postings and enforce guidelines to keep exchanges safe and free of charge.

Members join their local group to post items they wish to give away or to search for items they need, then arrange for pickup or delivery. Items are offered for free, and sales or trades are generally discouraged. The organization emphasizes reuse over disposal and encourages sustainable consumption.

The Freecycle network spans thousands of local groups in many countries and operates as a nonprofit in various jurisdictions. It is funded through donations and volunteer labor, with regional chapters or service providers sometimes operating under the Freecycle name. Moderation, privacy, and safety policies vary by group.

Criticisms and challenges include inconsistent moderation, potential scams or misuse, and privacy concerns due to publicly visible postings. Despite these issues, Freecycle remains a widely used platform for community-based reuse that helps extend the life of consumer goods and reduce waste.