Chargers

Not all devices use the same charger devices even though they have the same purpose! As a result there are a ton of different chargers being produced. The EU recognizes how much e-waste this problem causes and in 2021 proposed to make a common charger mandatory. USB-C ports have become universal in recent years making them the ideal common charger. By making it mandatory, the amount of chargers needed will reduce. One charger would work for all devices which would also end the need for companies to give a charger with every new device bought(a component of the legislation). After the plans were proposed, Apple objected saying it would be inconvenient for them and their consumers. It’s all about reducing waste, which clearly big companies like Apple are not on board with. Consumers have to make the conscious decision to buy less and support companies who are making it a priority to reduce waste.

DIY

Unplug your chargers when you are not using them! Even when you aren’t charging your device, the charger uses electricity. While it is a small amount, it does add to your electricity bill and wastes energy. Unplugging the charger once you’ve used it is a simple thing you can do to reduce energy use.

Second-hand

Like everything else, you can find used chargers on sites like Ebay. If you are looking to buy a large amount of chargers, businesses like Reagan Wireless sell used wholesale bulk chargers.

Buy New

With all the devices we own nowadays, we find ourselves relying heavily on chargers. Many chargers tend to use more energy than what’s necessary and are often made of hard to recycle materials like PVC. If you want to spend more money you can buy a wireless charger which will last you longer and require less parts. In addition to buying more environmentally conscious chargers, consider purchasing smart plugs for your home. They reduce the amount of energy used by devices in your home.

My Picks

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Nimble

Nimble uses less materials to make their eco-friendly chargers. Their One-for-One tech Recovery Project recycles up to one pound of e-waste for every purchase made

uses REPLAYED certified recycled plastic, plastic free packages and harmless ink or dyes
Certified b-corp, 1% for the planet

Belkin

Belkin has been a reliable electronic company for many years. The company is committed to following the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, reducing single-use plastic by 25% in the next few years, and being carbon neutral by 2025.

read their 2020 sustainability report here

Infinity Lab

Infinity Lab is making their products from 90% recycled plastic and recycled polyester yarn. Their products are designed to be compact and efficient.

packaging is plastic free, FSC certified paper, printed with soy ink

ANKER

ANKER’s mission is to make charging products that will be efficient and durable for years. They want to reduce e-waste by re-using materials as long as they can.