India’s population has been experiencing rapid growth over the past few decades, leading to significant overcrowding in urban areas. This escalation has placed immense pressure on the country’s ecosystems, with water shortages and power outages becoming increasingly common during the summer months—a situation that worsens year after year.
Fortunately, individuals can make simple lifestyle changes that can help alleviate environmental stress. While these modifications may initially require some investment, they can lead to long-term savings on utility bills, making them economically viable choices.
Reducing Electricity Bills
Upendra Singh, a businessman specializing in solar water heating systems based in Bhopal, discussed effective strategies for alleviating the strain on the power grid in an interview with Gadgets 360. With over two decades of experience in the non-conventional energy sector, Singh has operated his dealership, Silverline Associates, since 2002.
“Investing in a high-quality electric geyser can set you back approximately Rs. 7,000, in addition to ongoing electricity expenses,” Singh noted. “Conversely, a solar water heater capable of heating 150 liters of water per day costs around Rs. 25,000, providing a substantial long-term economic benefit.”
Despite the higher upfront costs, solar water heaters prove to be more cost-effective over time. There are numerous sizes available, allowing consumers to select the right model for their needs. For guidance, potential buyers can visit this site. Singh emphasized that most regions in India receive ample sunlight for nearly 350 days a year.
“A typical solar day runs from 9 am to 3 pm, which is usually sufficient to provide hot water until 10 am the following morning,” Singh elaborated.
Solar water heaters come in larger capacities and can even integrate electric backup systems for when solar energy is insufficient. Although rooftop access is essential, which can be challenging in apartment settings, it remains feasible—much like urban gardening, which utilizes available rooftop space.
Conserving Water
Water conservation is another pressing issue, as daily wastage reaches alarming levels. According to Janak Daftari, a water activist in Mumbai, fixing leaking taps could significantly conserve water resources in urban areas, potentially supplying sufficient water during dryer seasons.
“Rainwater is essentially free and pure, so it is crucial to harness it rather than relying on external sources,” Daftari advised. While rainwater harvesting is beneficial, he stressed that recycling water is even more critical since it can only be harvested during the limited rainy season of roughly 90 days each year.
Remedies for recycling include conventional sewage treatment methods that generate sludge and utilize harmful chemicals. Instead, Daftari advocates for the use of biotechnology solutions. “A biosanitizer can treat water in about 18 hours, making it suitable for gardening, groundwater replenishment, or vehicle washing,” he said. “Since we installed one in our building in 2009, it has produced 10,000 liters of recyclable water without maintenance.”
Daftari added that purchasing water from the Mumbai municipal corporation costs around Rs. 9 per kilolitre, while tanker supplies range from Rs. 60 to Rs. 90 per kilolitre. Meanwhile, treating water with a biosanitizer costs only about Rs. 2.2 per kilolitre.
According to Daftari, this technology can also purify drinking water at home. “The entry-level package is priced at just Rs. 10,000 for a family, compared to over Rs. 12,000 for conventional UV and RO purifiers,” he explained, noting the biosanitizer’s advantage of requiring no regular maintenance.
Changing public attitudes about water usage remains a significant challenge, which Daftari believes can be effectively addressed through early education starting from the third or fourth grade.
Saving the Environment and Money Using the Internet of Things
Minimizing Waste
Many individuals overlook the importance of waste segregation and recycling, despite education on composting being common in schools. Arijit Mitra, the owner of Greentechlife, shared insights about the “Smartbin,” a dustbin designed to facilitate composting that has gained popularity through his website.
However, Mitra highlighted the positive trend in awareness surrounding composting, noting that Smartbins and Smartbin Air have been distributed across India, including rural areas.
This Indian Startup Is Building a Waste Management Platform
Eco-Friendly Homes
For those seeking a more substantial impact, considering purchasing homes with green certifications could be a worthwhile option. The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) offers a certification program known as the Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA). This certification evaluates factors such as site status, soil conditions, flora and fauna, and resource management during the planning and construction phases.
Buildings that achieve GRIHA certification must demonstrate reduced air and water pollution, effective water management, and initiatives for minimizing waste generation and promoting recycling.
The Indian Green Buildings Council (IGBC) also provides green home certifications applicable to both existing structures and new constructions. Benefits of certified green homes include reductions in energy and water usage—potentially by as much as 40 percent. Currently, over 1,600 projects across India utilize IGBC’s rating systems that encourage the use of thermally insulated walls, reflective roofing, salvaged construction materials, wastewater treatment practices, and energy-efficient appliances.
Even if not all suggested measures can be implemented, individuals can still adopt an environmentally conscious lifestyle by opting for energy-efficient appliances that carry a 5-star BEE energy saver rating or by utilizing renewable energy sources. Every effort counts in the pursuit of environmental sustainability.
