Disposable batteries are among one of the most environmentally unfriendly items we buy. They use around half of the mercury in the United States and, when disposed of improperly, this mercury creates toxic emissions when burned. As a culture, we have made a great step in the creation and common use of rechargeable batteries in our devices. Computers, phones, digital cameras and portable dvd players all make use of this technology. We are an on-the-go culture and our portable gadgets have become something we often wouldn’t want to live without.
In our search for sustainable alternatives to our most common energy usages, solar power can provide us with the next step to helping our gadgets go green. Starting as low as 13, solar-powered chargers for electronics are simple and cost-effective. Access to the sun is, of course, a necessity but most of us have consistent access to windows, cars or a sunlit patio. Instead of plugging your cell phone’s car charger into the cigarette lighter, a solar charger can sit on the dash and provide a clean and efficient charge for your handheld necessity. At home, any window that gets a few hours of sunlight a day can provide a full charge.
To consistently power your portable electronic devices through solar chargers has become more convenient than ever before. A little awareness and forethought into when you charge and where you charge can make all the difference.
