The real battery truth: Why rechargeable batteries are really growing in popularity

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We rely on batteries more than we realise. Especially for our on-the-go lifestyle – used for everything from camping, exercising and emergency situations.

But while single-use batteries seem safe and ready to go, they aren’t the reliable (or safe) power option we have been led to believe. Here’s the real truth behind disposable batteries and why rechargeable batteries are gaining popularity.

Single-use batteries (or disposable batteries)

From the get go, single-use batteries require large scale mining of metals like zinc, manganese and lithium. This is because of their one-time use and causes destruction of habitat, water contamination and air pollution.

The true environmental impact of disposable batteries

What happens when a single-use battery has served its time?

Yes, parts can be recycled but often disposable batteries aren’t recycled effectively. In the United States alone, approximately 2.85 billion batteries are sent to landfill every year.

Improper disposal of high-volume battery waste can lead to toxic leakage into soil. For instance, once zinc gets into soil, it remains there forever and is harmful to vegetation and aquatic life. Similarly, materials like manganese and lead can cause permanent soil damage and health threats. In Western Australia, toxic leakage into arid soil systems cost $17 million AUD to clean up. Even then, some zones had to be declared permanently toxic.

Stocking up on single-use, disposable batteries? You could be losing power

Another fun fact we often are surprised no one knows – disposable batteries lose power over time. While many of us keep single-use batteries on hand ‘just in case’, the longer you leave them, the more power they lose.

Ever wondered how that ‘new’ battery seems to die quickly? This is why.

Curious how they lose power over time? We share more about this below.

Enter rechargeable batteries: The better, more reliable choice

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are more than just an environmentally-friendly option, they provide many advantages day to day.

Did you know that USYNC rechargeable batteries can be used up to 1,200 times and more than 95% of its materials can be easily recycled?

Let’s do the maths. An average disposable battery costs $1 AUD while a USYNC rechargeable battery costs $11 AUD. The upfront cost may be higher for rechargeable batteries but when you take into account the 1,200 reusable cycles, each use is costing you as little as one cent.

Essentially, you’re saving $1,189 AUD. And, instead of sending them to landfill, you can effectively recycle rechargeable batteries.

Not only are rechargeable batteries a much better solution for the environment, they are also light on your wallet!

Slow power release: The secret power of rechargeable batteries

Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are more energy-dense and efficient than single-use batteries. Their slow discharge makes them a better option for high-powered devices. But their power advantage doesn’t stop there.

While rechargeable batteries still lose power when inactive, their rate of energy release is much lower. According to a recent MIT report, after six months, a rechargeable battery will still be at 90% capacity. In comparison, a single-use battery will already be at 55% on average. And in 12 months?

That ‘handy’ emergency single-use battery may only have 30% of power left.

Longer use, less impact

Extensive reusability and strong recycling capability make rechargeable batteries a better alternative for our environment.

Although production of rechargeable batteries also requires mining, they can be used much longer than single-use batteries. This means the amount of materials required for production is greatly reduced.

The United States is already leading the change to rechargeable batteries and have forecasted that a full transition by the country could prevent more than 2 million being discharged by 2040.

And in Australia, the home of USYNC, the country’s emphasis on renewable energy and sustainability has seen a high adoption of rechargeable batteries.

Make the switch to rechargeable batteries now

Every time you switch your battery from single-use to rechargeable, you reduce landfill waste and avoid the need to constantly stock up. Less environmental destruction and more money in your pocket? It’s a no brainer.

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