Household Sustainability

Households are becoming greener

 A multitude of factors are creating greener households, aside from a greater goodwill towards sustainability. The rise and rise of single-person homes and urbanisation is helping to expand sustainable resources and streamline the focus on eco products. Improved facilities in emerging markets are helping to create cleaner footprints and modular apartments offer sustainable housing.

Energy efficiency is being adopted by homes as a cost-saving device

With rising energy prices in most countries, households are turning to energy-efficient products as a cost-saving device. Penetration of energy-efficient CFL and LED light bulbs has risen in advanced economies like the USA, while smart-home tools like thermostats have developed into a lucrative market.

Rapid urbanisation and mega cities challenge sustainability

The rapid expansion of household numbers in emerging markets, in some cases creating newly-formed mega cities, is a major challenge for sustainable households. Obstacles include unsustainable pressure on state infrastructure and resources, rising urban poverty, housing shortages, and overcrowding.

Start-ups and state schemes drive energy efficiency

States are encouraging homes to be more sustainable by offering “green loans” – financing at below-market rates for energy-efficient households. Meanwhile, start-ups like the UK-based Azuri are helping low-income, off-grid homes in emerging markets gain access to renewable energy resources.

Opportunities lie in sustainable home goods and electronics recycling

Retailers able to offer sustainable household goods with attractive designs are being embraced by a growing cohort of environmentally-conscious consumers. Households are also demonstrating growing demand for services aimed at recycling electronics, as used mobile phones and tablets pile up at home.