Doing the Green Maths

A simple way to prioritise green choices at home by cost and impact, and a recap of the module.

Not all green choices are equal. A simple framework helps prioritise.

Step 1: Free and cheap wins

Switch off unused lights and appliances.
Fix leaks.
Use natural light and ventilation.
Set ACs at around 24 degrees, which BEE recommends as a default setting for new ACs.

Step 2: Quick paybacks

LED bulbs.
Water-saving fittings.
Cool roof coatings.
Efficient fans, such as BLDC fans.

Step 3: Bigger investments

Five-star appliances when replacing old ones.
Rooftop solar with subsidies and loans.
EVs for high-usage vehicles.
Solar water heaters.

Step 4: High-impact lifestyle choices

Fewer flights.
Public transport, cycling or walking.
Diet changes.

Questions to ask

What’s the upfront cost?
What are the annual savings?
What’s the payback period?
What’s the environmental impact?

Module recap

Green products often cost more upfront but save money over time.
Star labels and UJALA transformed appliance and lighting markets.
Induction, PNG and LPG costs vary; water saving and cool roofs cut bills.
Flights, driving, cooling and diet dominate household footprints.
Beware greenwashing; green loans spread costs.
Mission LiFE promotes sustainable habits; the rebound effect trims savings.

The family plan

A family lists possible green changes. They start with free habits and LEDs, then install a cool roof and five-star fridge when their old one breaks. They plan rooftop solar next year using a subsidy.

Thinking green living requires big spending

Many of the best choices are free or cheap with quick paybacks.

Key takeaways

Start with free and cheap actions.
Prioritise quick-payback investments like LEDs and cool roofs.
Plan bigger investments when replacing items.
High-impact lifestyle choices matter most for emissions.