Sustainability and energy efficiency in the digital world

How do you assess the energy efficiency of chargers and why is it important for the environment?

The efficiency of chargers is determined by the ratio of energy absorbed (input) to energy delivered (output). More efficient chargers convert more input current into usable output energy and lose less energy in the form of heat. This is important for the environment as higher efficiency means that less energy is required from power stations, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions. Efficiency standards such as the Energy Star label help consumers to identify the most environmentally friendly products. For smartphones, laptops and tablets, there are mainly USB-A, micro-USB, USB-C and Lightning cables. USB-C is currently the most efficient type, as it supports faster data transfer and a higher charging speed. It can also be plugged in on both sides and is compatible with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to laptops. Lightning cables are exclusive to Apple devices and offer similar benefits in terms of efficiency, but are only compatible with Apple products. However, fast charging damages the battery in the long term. You can find more tips on battery care here.

Solar-powered chargers - how do they work?

Portable solar chargers use solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy, which is then used to charge devices such as smartphones, tablets and sometimes even laptops. These devices come in different sizes and capacities, ranging from small, foldable panels that are easy to transport to larger, more powerful units with multiple panels for faster charging. The efficiency depends on the size of the solar panels and the direct sunlight. They are particularly useful for outdoor activities or in areas where access to electricity is limited.

How can you save electricity in everyday life and thus reduce energy and costs?

How often do you leave your charger plugged in, even when it's not in use? If the charger is left plugged into the socket even when it is not connected to a device, it will continue to consume a small amount of electricity, often referred to as 'idle consumption'. This "vampire consumption" can add up over time, especially if multiple chargers are left plugged in at all times. It is therefore good practice to disconnect chargers when they are not in active use to save energy and minimise environmental impact. Here are more tips for saving power: Reduce screen brightness, enable power saving modes, close apps in the background, disable unnecessary push notifications, switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use, and regularly check battery usage to identify power-hungry apps. These simple steps can significantly extend battery life and reduce power consumption.

What to do with old chargers?

At Revendo, we accept old chargers free of charge and ensure they are disposed of properly. This service helps to recover valuable materials and reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste. By recycling your old charger with us, you are actively contributing to environmental protection and ensuring that fewer hazardous substances are released into the environment.