Each year, Earth Day reminds us of the importance of making more sustainable choices in our daily lives. Choosing used goods is an easy and powerful way to reduce environmental impact. Buying used goods not only reduces waste but also helps conserve natural resources, cuts down on carbon emissions, and offers significant cost savings. In India, where consumerism is rapidly rising and urban waste continues to grow at alarming rates, this shift towards a circular economy is more important than ever. Opting for used products is no longer just a budget-friendly decision—it’s a conscious choice.
OLX India recommends these five everyday items you should consider buying used if you want to live more sustainably:
Furniture
The global used furniture market was valued at around USD 34 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% between 2024 and 2030. In India, the furniture market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.9% from 2025 to 2034, driven by a growing interest in pre-loved, high-quality furniture among urban consumers. Choosing used furniture means reducing demand for new production, saving resources, and minimizing waste. From solid wood beds and vintage bookshelves to ergonomic office chairs and coffee tables—used furniture is often durable, and affordable. Many people even opt to upcycle or refurbish their furniture for a custom, trendy look.
Fun fact: Reusing one ton of wooden furniture can save up to 1.5 tons of CO₂ emissions
Electronics
India’s consumer electronics market was valued at USD 84bn in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 143bn by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.3%. However, this rapid expansion comes with an environmental cost—India is the world’s third-largest producer of e-waste, generating over 1.6 million tonnes annually. Popular used electronics include smartphones, laptops, tablets, headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and gaming consoles.
Most refurbished devices undergo stringent quality checks and often come with warranties or seller-backed guarantees, offering reliability at a lower price point.
Home Appliances
India’s consumer electronics and home appliances market is on a steady growth trajectory and is projected to grow by USD 2.07bn between 2024 and 2029, at a CAGR of 1.2%. Buying used home appliances—like refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines, and air conditioners—helps reduce energy consumption and is an eco-friendly alternative.
When buying used, opt for appliances with 4-star or higher energy efficiency ratings, even in older models. It’s also advisable to check the product’s maintenance history, usage pattern, and overall condition to ensure safe and reliable performance.
Mobile Phones
Smartphone shipments in India reached 46 million units during Q3 of 2024, reflecting a 5.6% year-over-year increase highlighting both rising demand and growing e-waste concerns. Opting for a refurbished mobile phone is a smart way to reduce e-waste and lower your carbon footprint. With thorough testing, many refurbished phones now come with warranties and quality checks, offering reliable performance at a lower cost. Before purchasing, check the battery health, IMEI number, and warranty status to ensure value and peace of mind. It’s a smart, sustainable choice in a fast-changing tech landscape.
Cars and Bikes
In India, where over 4 million used cars are sold annually—nearly double the number of new ones—used vehicles are more than just budget-friendly; they’re a sustainable choice. Buying a used car or bike significantly reduces the energy, and raw materials required to manufacture a new one.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for an upgrade, used vehicles are sustainable and also offer great value. Look for vehicles with a good service history and strong fuel efficiency.
Make a meaningful impact this Earth Day by choosing used goods—a simple, conscious step towards a greener future.
