Rechargable Batteries: Save Dollars and the Earth

For everything from toys to necessary items like home security devices and flashlights, batteries have become a major power source for the common homeowner or the traveling professional, but rechargeable batteries are a great option for conserving resources and saving money on these necessary power supplies.

Not enough consumers and families know about the benefits of using rechargeable batteries, and even businesses can profit from using rechargeable battery systems. Some tend to avoid these products because they think the recharging process is too complicated, but research shows that rechargeable batteries pay for themselves many times over, and more thrifty buyers are now looking to this easy way to cut costs.

Environmental Benefits of Rechargeable Batteries

Studies have found that using rechargeable batteries decreases the use of nonrenewable resources that are employed to make the physical batteries themselves. The idea of conserving materials by reusing batteries is also something that some scientists say contributes to combating global warming, since less batteries have to be manufactured, reducing the carbon emissions in the manufacturing and delivery process.

Scientists also say that using rechargeable batteries cuts down on air pollution, specifically something called “air acidification.” Rechargeable battery use can also impact levels of water pollution, as the heavy metals from disposed batteries can seep into groundwater. Various heavy metals in batteries are among the most dangerous waste chemicals that get distributed into the earth and the water, leading to recycling programs for non-rechargeables that are often less than fully effective. Using rechargeable batteries largely eliminates this waste problem.

Economic Benefits of Rechargeable Batteries

Households can buy a simple rechargeable battery system for the price of a few packs of regular batteries. Over time, that means you’re saving a lot of money. Two popular types of batteries can both be bought as rechargeable systems. The Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) type of battery is the traditional type of battery that comes in A, C and D sizes as well as AA, AAA and the square 9-Volt. All of these types of batteries are sold as rechargeables, and using them to power all of your home electronics can save you a bundle.

Today, as electronics devices get smaller and smaller, more of these items are powered by smaller batteries. A popular type of these tiny power supplies are called Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) batteries. Lithium-ion batteries can also be rechargeable, for powering all of those small items like watches, translators, calculators, and other pocket electronics.

For those who think that the process of buying rechargeable batteries is too daunting, companies that sell these types of systems can help out by providing online resources about finding alternatives for specific battery types, and explaining what’s best for each particular kind of intended use. Companies are taking proactive steps to help consumers find the best options in “green batteries” that will cut down on some of the worst consequences of our energy use.

Next time you go to the store for batteries, think about upgrading to a rechargeable battery system, where the investment of just a little bit of time and money can help bring in huge dividends in energy reduction and dollar savings.