Now we all know that mercury is a very powerful yet poisonous mineral which cannot be dissolved once attached. This is why the disposal of batteries becomes very crucial to prevent mercury being emitted into the land or water which would eventually transfer to us.
As much as there are contentions about the mercury content in batteries, it is undeniable that we cannot live without them. Batteries are so convenient especially when we take our portable electronic items like discman, MP3 or radio out from home. It has become a way of life. Therefore, the best way to reduce the risk of mercury exposure to our bodies is to cut down on the usage of alkaline batteries and alternatively switch to rechargeable batteries.
There are many benefits in switching to rechargeable batteries:-
- Cost factor
Manufacturers are improving the technology in producing rechargeable batteries to keep the cost low. So, there is less worry about the purchase price. Besides, rechargeable batteries can be used indefinitely as long as you keep the batteries well. But do not start thinking of saving cash by recharging alkaline batteries as it may cause explosion to your premises. Chargers are only meant for Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) and Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) rechargeable batteries.
- Preserve the environment
Since there is not a need to throw the rechargeable batteries into the bin, then the land and water will have less mercury content. Unlike the good old days, most people threw the alkaline batteries because collection centers were unheard of. Even now, most people will be tempted to throw them without resorting to the collection centers. Rechargeable batteries will therefore not badly affect the environment.
- Higher capacity
Another good news in getting rechargeable batteries is that they can cater for higher voltage in electronic items like digital camera and PDA. Rechargeable batteries offer more security so that the energy will not run out so fast especially when you are on the road. This is an advancement from the ordinary alkaline batteries.
These are just some of the significant benefits of rechargeable batteries. With smarter technology available these days, you will also be delighted to know the recharging time is getting shorter compared to the first batch of production.
Additional reading:
www.greenbatteries.com
Image Credit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/freefoto/2250094567/
