Earth Day 2025: Top 8 Sustainable Ways to Save Money in India

Imagine a lifestyle where your daily choices not only nurture the planet but also accelerate your path to financial freedom. Sustainable living isn't just an environmental buzzword; it's a powerful strategy to cut costs and boost your savings. By embracing eco-friendly habits, you can reduce your expenses and invest the savings, fast tracking your way to achieving your financial goals.  

From switching to clean renewable energy and moving away from fossil fuels to reusing what you have and making mindful choices, your sustainable choices can drive not just positive change for the planet but boost your wealth too. 

On this Earth Day, let’s just explore the top 8 sustainable ways that benefit your finances and contribute positively to the environment and society.

1. Installation of solar panels in home

Installing solar panels allows households to produce their own electricity, significantly lowering their monthly electricity bills. In sunny regions of India, this can cover a large portion of daily power needs.  

The government encourages solar adoption through schemes like PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, providing up to 40% subsidy for residential rooftop systems. Many electricity boards also allow net metering, where users get credits for excess energy they supply back to the grid. These government incentives make solar installations more affordable, promoting clean energy and long-term savings for households across the country.  

2. Prioritising electric vehicles (EVs)

Buying an electric vehicle (EV) helps save money by reducing fuel and maintenance costs, as EVs run on electricity cheaper than petrol and diesel. Our government promotes EV adoption through schemes like FAME-II, offering subsidies on electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and cars. In FAME-II, the subsidy amount is ₹10,000 per kWh of battery capacity on two-wheelers, up to ₹50,000 on three-wheelers, and up to ₹1.5 lakh on four-wheelers used for commercial purposes only.  

Some states also waive road tax and registration fees, making EVs more affordable upfront and attractive for long-term financial and environmental benefits.

3. Recycling of waste

Recycling waste helps common people save money by reducing the need for new products, as recycled materials are often cheaper than raw materials. It lowers waste disposal costs and provides opportunities to sell recyclable items like metals, paper, and plastic, creating an additional source of income.  

Environmentally, recycling conserves natural resources, reduces pollution, and decreases landfill usage. In India, the government offers various subsidies and financial incentives to promote recycling through initiatives like the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. These programs support waste collection, sorting, and recycling infrastructure, encouraging businesses and individuals to adopt more sustainable waste management practices.

4. Buy local and seasonal produce

Buying local and seasonal produce in India can save money by reducing the costs associated with importing and storing out-of-season fruits and vegetables. Local produce is typically more affordable due to lower transportation and handling costs. Seasonal items are grown in abundance, leading to a decrease in prices during peak harvest times. By purchasing these items, consumers not only save money but also support local farmers and contribute to the local economy.

Additionally, seasonal produce is often fresher and more nutritious, making it a healthier and cost-effective choice for families. This practice promotes sustainability and reduces the carbon footprint.

5. Waste-water management

Waste-water management can save money for common people by reducing water bills and conserving water resources, which can be reused for non-potable purposes like irrigation or industrial processes. Proper treatment of wastewater reduces the strain on freshwater supplies, lowering the need for expensive water purification.

In India, the government provides subsidies and incentives for wastewater treatment projects under schemes like the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and State-level initiatives, encouraging efficient water management and recycling.

6. Use of public transport

Using public transport can save money by reducing daily expenses on fuel, maintenance, and parking associated with private vehicles. Public transport options like buses, metro, and trains are cost-effective, with affordable fares compared to the high costs of owning and operating a car or bike.

Additionally, using public transport reduces the need for frequent vehicle repairs and insurance payments. By opting for public transit, individuals can also contribute to reducing traffic congestion and environmental pollution, benefiting both finances and the community.

7. Compost organic waste

Composting organic waste helps save money in India by reducing the need for purchasing chemical fertilizers and soil conditioners for gardening or farming. Instead of throwing away food scraps, garden waste, and other organic materials, composting turns them into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to improve soil quality, boosting plant growth and reducing the cost of commercial fertilizers. By managing waste sustainably, individuals can cut down on unnecessary costs while promoting a cleaner, healthier environment.

8. Switch to energy-efficient appliances

Switching to energy-efficient appliances in India helps save money by reducing electricity consumption. Appliances like LED lights, energy-efficient refrigerators, and air conditioners consume less power, lowering monthly electricity bills. 

Over time, the savings on energy costs can offset the initial investment in these appliances. Additionally, energy-efficient products often have a longer lifespan, further reducing maintenance and replacement expenses. By using less electricity, households can also contribute to environmental conservation by reducing their carbon footprint. 

Everyday is Earth Day. Let’s make sustainable choices, because it not only helps the planet but is great for your pocket too. And that’s not it. We can influence markets and force company to change through investing sustainably aka by aligning our money with our environmental values.