Choosing sustainable
Updated: Jan 11, 2021
During this pandemic we've seen a rise in choosing primary batteries for OEM applications. The need for quick solutions that can be approved and shipped out rapidly is definitely one of the bigger causes to this trend. However, if you're not in an extreme situation, consider using a greener battery option. Rechargeable batteries have a far smaller sustainable footprint and much longer life expectancy.
Choosing rechargeable although can make the development process much slower. A simple alkaline AA battery pack can be designed and produced in a fairly short amount of time. Shipping regulations are not as strict and since an alkaline AA is such a standard and safe battery, the future maintenance will not be much of a hassle.
So far primary battery solutions seem to have the advantage, right? Maybe not. Depending on the chemistry of the battery and the solution it’s going to be placed in, the life expectancy can be anything from a dozen in a camera flash to about 10 years in a smoke detector. So, what happens after the AA in the camera flash has been used? In a dream world it always goes to the battery recycling bin, but unfortunately in most cases it’s thrown into the normal disposable waste. Batteries being thrown into the nature or ending up in a landfill is today a big problem as they contain harmful chemicals that damage our already pressured flora and fauna.
Rechargeable batteries are not only good for having a longer life expectancy, they are also a much better choice economically. In the long run you or the end user will save money on not having to buy new batteries every time the device runs out of power.
To sum it up. Think for the long run. Think about the future generations to come and what we can do for them. Choose a sustainable solution when you can.
Don’t know what to choose from? Contact us and we’ll gladly help you get started.