Replace disposable batteries with solar energy

The obsolescence of incandescent lightbulbs

With the introduction of LEDs, the incandescent lightbulb has long been obsolete. Why not let rechargeable batteries take the place of disposable ones? BRIGHT’s products are charged using solar energy and rechargeable lithium-based batteries for storage – potentially saving thousands of disposable batteries.

The difference between disposable and rechargeable batteries:

What is the difference between a disposable and a rechargeable battery? Both consist of an electron-emitting cathode and a receiving anode, separated by an electrolyte. However, while a disposable battery can only transfer energy between the cathode and anode once, a rechargeable battery’s chemistry and construction allow the process to be repeated – resulting in undeniable environmental benefits. Firstly, a disposable battery has a climate footprint 28 times larger than its rechargeable relative [1]. Secondly, the lithium batteries found in BRIGHT’s products perform better in cold weather. Because the electrolytes of disposable alkaline batteries are often water-based, their chemical reactions are slower, negatively impacting their performance and durability.

Alarming battery consumption

Yet 160,000 tonnes, or approximately seven billion alkaline batteries, are sold annually in the EU. After only one use, these batteries become waste. Despite their negative impact, Eurostat estimates that only 44 percent of disposable batteries are recycled. In Norway, the number is even lower at 32 percent [2]. Many of these contain hazardous materials, particularly the small button-cell batteries in watches and small electronics marked Pb, Hg, or Cd.

The replacement potential of BRIGHT solar products

The table below shows the number of disposable AA and AAA batteries the BRIGHT SunBell Smart and Move Smart can replace:

Sources:

[1] http://www.uniross.co.za/bio_a...

[2] https://ec.europa.eu/environme...