In comparison to their traditional counterparts, eco-friendly appliances are designed to minimise resource consumption, for example energy and water

Byline- Ankit Mathur, Co-founder & CEO, Greenway Grameen

The adverse effects of global warming and increasingly erratic weather patterns have raised environmental awareness among the wider public. These concerns have sparked a significant shift towards sustainability, with companies adopting environmentally conscious practices to reduce their impact. Consumers, too, are more informed and empowered, driving demand for products that balance functionality with sustainability. According to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), in the last five years, global online searches for sustainable products have risen by 71 per cent—highlighting growing interest in environmentally responsible alternatives. This shift reflects a genuine commitment to sustainability rather than a passing trend.

The global home appliances market is projected to grow from USD 711.36 billion in 2024 to USD 1,113.05 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1 per cent. This growth offers significant opportunities for the adoption of eco-friendly appliances.

Difference Between Eco-friendly And Traditional Household Appliances
Compared to their conventional counterparts, eco-friendly appliances are designed to minimise resource consumption—such as energy and water. By incorporating advanced technologies, sustainable materials, and efficient design, these appliances result in reduced operating costs, lower emissions, and decreased waste of raw materials, water, and energy. From a life-cycle perspective, they offer financial savings for consumers while benefitting the environment. Ultimately, the choice between traditional and eco-friendly appliances represents a broader commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management in daily life.

Changing Purchasing Intent And Power
The shift in consumer intent towards eco-friendly appliances is largely driven by increased awareness of environmental challenges and the desire to contribute to a sustainable future. Though these appliances often involve a higher upfront cost, they offer substantial long-term savings. As awareness around climate change and its impact continues to rise, consumers across all age groups are gravitating towards energy-efficient products.

A Deloitte survey revealed that 84 per cent of Gen Z and 90 per cent of Millennials in India are actively trying to reduce their personal impact on the environment, reflecting a strong preference for sustainable choices shaped by heightened environmental concerns. This is part of a broader trend of conscious consumption, where individuals prioritise both savings and sustainability.

According to Statista, a majority of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainably produced or environmentally friendly products, recognising the long-term value of sustainable practices. Additionally, government incentives and rebates for purchasing eco-friendly appliances are making these options more accessible. These include the forthcoming Green Credit Programme (GCP), which rewards individuals and organisations for environmentally positive actions; subsidies on electric vehicles (EVs) with reduced Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates; and the Green Business Scheme, which offers financial support for income-generating activities that mitigate climate impacts.

The Need For Eco-friendly Appliances In Urban And Rural Areas
Eco-friendly appliances are vital in both urban and rural settings where environmental concerns and energy efficiency are crucial. While urban consumers often possess greater purchasing power, rural consumption in India has also shown significant growth. The specific needs, however, differ by context.

In rural areas, appliances such as improved cookstoves, energy-efficient lighting, and smart water purification devices can greatly enhance quality of life by reducing reliance on traditional fuels and lowering energy costs. These technologies help to address indoor air pollution, improve access to energy in off-grid areas, and promote responsible resource usage.

In contrast, urban dwellers focus more on reducing electricity and water use through smart appliances, high-efficiency insulation, and energy-saving heating and cooling systems. Regardless of geography, the increasing demand for high-efficiency, eco-friendly appliances is key to driving both environmental and financial benefits.

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) reports that India’s energy efficiency measures have already led to substantial energy savings, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and tangible financial gains for consumers—demonstrating the effectiveness of promoting high-efficiency appliances as a pillar of sustainable development.

Health Impacts
Eco-friendly appliances also play a crucial role in improving health outcomes in both rural and urban areas by reducing indoor air pollution. In rural households, the widespread use of traditional biomass fuels in inefficient stoves significantly increases the risk of respiratory illness. A study in southern India found that solid biomass fuels generate particulate matter (PM) levels in kitchens that are 10 to 20 times higher than average, with women experiencing the highest exposure.

Urban areas face similar issues. Gas stoves, for instance, are a significant source of indoor air pollutants. Recent research suggests that gas stoves contribute to thousands of asthma cases and even deaths each year. Transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives—such as improved cookstoves or electric and solar-powered options—can greatly reduce exposure to harmful emissions. The Kleinman Center for Energy Policy notes that improved cookstoves have been shown to reduce peak cooking emissions by 40 per cent. Widespread adoption of such technologies is essential for creating healthier living environments and lowering the burden of pollution-related illnesses.

The Way Forward
The surge in demand for eco-friendly appliances is spurring both innovation and market growth. Manufacturers and consumers alike are embracing sustainable, energy-efficient technologies, broadening the availability and accessibility of green appliances.

Government schemes and incentives—such as energy performance standards, green credits, and subsidies—continue to play a pivotal role in accelerating this transition. This movement signifies a key transformation towards an energy-efficient future and highlights the indispensable role of eco-friendly appliances in building a more sustainable, healthier world.