Eco Powered Charging Solutions: Charging Technologies Articles: Eco20/20

Eco Powered Charging Solutions

Today's demand for ever-expanding types of technology is unquenchable. There are thousands of electronic devices already in use, and thousands more sold each and every day. The power that it takes to recharge these devices can really take its toll on the environment.

We take our electronic gadgets everywhere we go, and thus want to have the ability to recharge them, no matter where we are. This means chargers for the home, chargers for the car, and chargers for the office. Now that is a LOT of chargers! These standard chargers are not known for being the most efficient devices in the world, and car chargers are notorious power wasters. This doesn't even take in to affect the environmental destruction that is cause by the production of these products before they ever enter your home.

Just think of all the electronic and battery powered gadgets you have lying around your house. From cell phones, to mp3 players, mobile devices, to even flashlights and television controller - that is a lot of batteries, and an awful lot of charging.

Rechargeable batteries are often the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about more "eco-friendly" charging solutions. While these are a step in the right direction, and are great for those things that still use standard batteries, they are not the only solutions available on the marketplace. Nor do they address charging devices that run on lithium-ion and other types of batteries.

One simple bit of advice, and it is something most of us do not think of, and it is perhaps the most eco- friendly thing we can do, is to turn off our electronic devices when they are not in use. This includes removing our chargers from the wall when not in use - it might surprise you to find out that they use energy even when they aren't charging - while it isn't much, it is a complete waste! Doing these things will save energy and reduce unnecessary drain on the batteries and add to the length of the life of the battery because it isn't being charged as often. Besides, leaving an electronic device plugged into a charger longer than is necessary can actually be harmful to your device, so not only are you wasting energy, there is also the chance you are putting your device in jeopardy.

Beyond the common sense basics, there are many options for eco-friendly charging stations that can recharge things from laptops, to cell phones, and even personal gaming devices. There are chargers that allow you to charge multiple devices from the same unit and quick chargers that will charge up your units in far less time than traditional options. Solar powered chargers are increasing popularity as they allow you to charge your devices using energy provided by the sun.

There are even human powered charging devices on the market and you can't get much more eco-friendly than that! You can charge now charge your cell phone while trimming your waistline! A number of companies have introduced chargers that are powered by you. They attach to your stationary bicycle and electricity is generated while you ride - the spin of the wheels on the bike is converted into electric energy.

With so many choices on the marketplace, you do not have to choose between being environmentally friendly and using the devices you love. Simply take a look online to get an idea of the options you have and choose the one that works for you.