UNIROSS Study on the Environmental Impact of ... - Battery Logic
UNIROSS Study on the Environmental Impact of ... - Battery Logic
UNIROSS Study on the Environmental Impact of ... - Battery Logic
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Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
C<strong>on</strong>tents<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> <str<strong>on</strong>g>Study</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Envir<strong>on</strong>mental <strong>Impact</strong> <strong>of</strong> Batteries<br />
1. The use <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> term “disposable” batteries<br />
throughout this document refers to “disposable<br />
alkaline” batteries.<br />
Carried out in 2007, <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> study c<strong>on</strong>stitutes <strong>the</strong> first worldwide<br />
study comparing disposable batteries 1 with Ni-MH rechargeable batteries.<br />
Performed by Bio Intelligence Service for <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, this study was based<br />
<strong>on</strong> a comparative life cycle analysis between disposable batteries and<br />
rechargeable batteries. It showed that, for a given quantity <strong>of</strong> energy<br />
produced (1 kWh), rechargeable batteries have up to 32 times less impact<br />
<strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment than disposable batteries.<br />
Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study: Envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong> disposable<br />
batteries compared with rechargeable batteries:<br />
Results show rechargeables win hands down....................p. 1<br />
I. Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study: rechargeable batteries are<br />
a big winner in envir<strong>on</strong>mental protecti<strong>on</strong>t .................................................... p. 1<br />
II. Methodology.................................................................................................. p. 3<br />
III. Partners ........................................................................................................ p. 5<br />
The market: The rechargeable battery market: Expansi<strong>on</strong> in<br />
use and growth<br />
A pr<strong>of</strong>itable c<strong>on</strong>text .......................................................................................... p. 6<br />
Rechargeable battery: Rechargeable batteries, resp<strong>on</strong>sible<br />
c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> ................................................................ p. 8<br />
I. Disposable battery, rechargeable battery, what changes? .............................. p. 8<br />
II. <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> recommendati<strong>on</strong>s for optimum use<br />
<strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries .................................................................................. p. 9<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>: <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, technological innovati<strong>on</strong><br />
at <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental resp<strong>on</strong>sibility.............. p. 10<br />
I. <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> in a word ........................................................................................ p. 10<br />
II. <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, an eco-citizen company committed<br />
to protecting <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment ...................................................................... p. 11<br />
III. <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> and its management .................................................................. p. 12
Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
FOCUS<br />
Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study 1<br />
Envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong> disposable batteries<br />
compared with rechargeable batteries:<br />
Results show rechargeables win<br />
hands down<br />
The results <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> study<br />
show that, for<br />
equivalent energy<br />
producti<strong>on</strong> (1 kWh),<br />
rechargeable<br />
batteries can, <strong>on</strong><br />
average, generate up<br />
to 32 times less<br />
impact <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
envir<strong>on</strong>ment than<br />
disposable batteries<br />
All rights reserved – 2007 – Uniross<br />
Source: Uniross study carried out by Bio Intelligence Service<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, European leader in rechargeable batteries, has carried out <strong>the</strong> first worldwide<br />
study <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> comparative envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong> rechargeable and disposable<br />
batteries. This study, performed by Bio Intelligence Service for <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, gave highly<br />
c<strong>on</strong>vincing results.<br />
I Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study: rechargeable batteries are<br />
a big winner in envir<strong>on</strong>mental protecti<strong>on</strong><br />
1. Rechargeable batteries: up to 32 times less impact <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
envir<strong>on</strong>ment than disposable batteries<br />
The <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> study focuses <strong>on</strong> 11 indicators <strong>of</strong> potential impacts <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment. The<br />
challenge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se indicators is to express <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> product<br />
throughout its life cycle.<br />
The main origins <strong>of</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact are:<br />
for rechargeable batteries: <strong>the</strong> producti<strong>on</strong> and use phases (charge cycles);<br />
for disposable batteries: mainly <strong>the</strong> producti<strong>on</strong> phase (between 70 and 100%).<br />
In a c<strong>on</strong>text in which c<strong>on</strong>sumers are increasingly attentive to modes <strong>of</strong> c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> which<br />
combine performances and resp<strong>on</strong>sibility, rechargeable batteries have come to be seen as a<br />
veritable alternative to disposable batteries.<br />
<strong>Battery</strong> impact <strong>on</strong> 5 key indicators<br />
Bio Intelligence Service adopted <strong>the</strong> 5 main envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact indicators with <strong>the</strong><br />
widest scope out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> total <strong>of</strong> 11 studied. The 5 indicators are: c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> natural<br />
resources, global warming, oz<strong>on</strong>e polluti<strong>on</strong>, air acidificati<strong>on</strong> and water polluti<strong>on</strong>.
FOCUS<br />
Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study 2<br />
If we replaced<br />
all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
disposable batteries<br />
in Europe…<br />
Replacing disposable<br />
batteries with rechargeable<br />
batteries would avoid<br />
producing 99,000 metric<br />
t<strong>on</strong>nes <strong>of</strong> waste in Europe<br />
and 330,000 metric t<strong>on</strong>nes<br />
worldwide.<br />
All rights reserved – 2007 – Uniross<br />
Source: Uniross study carried out by Bio Intelligence Service<br />
For 1 kWh <strong>of</strong> energy produced, rechargeable batteries have:<br />
23 times less potential impact <strong>on</strong> n<strong>on</strong>-renewable natural resources<br />
This indicator translates <strong>the</strong> decreasing availability <strong>of</strong> natural resources. Rechargeable<br />
batteries c<strong>on</strong>sume up to 23 times less n<strong>on</strong>-renewable natural resources (fossil and mineral)<br />
than disposable batteries. To provide <strong>the</strong> same amount <strong>of</strong> energy, more disposable batteries<br />
are needed than rechargeable batteries. This implies a greater c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> natural<br />
resources.<br />
28 times less potential impact <strong>on</strong> global warming<br />
Climate change means an increase in <strong>the</strong> average temperature <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> earth’s surface caused by<br />
an increase in <strong>the</strong> greenhouse gas effect.<br />
Rechargeable batteries have up to 28 times less impact <strong>on</strong> climate warming than disposable<br />
batteries. This ratio can mainly be explained by <strong>the</strong> impact caused when manufacturing<br />
disposable batteries and distributing <strong>the</strong>m (transportati<strong>on</strong> in trucks and <strong>the</strong> related greenhouse<br />
gas emissi<strong>on</strong>s).<br />
30 times less potential impact <strong>on</strong> air polluti<strong>on</strong> (oz<strong>on</strong>e polluti<strong>on</strong>)<br />
Photochemical oxidati<strong>on</strong> is resp<strong>on</strong>sible for peaks <strong>of</strong> oz<strong>on</strong>e and emissi<strong>on</strong>s <strong>of</strong> compounds toxic to<br />
man. Rechargeable batteries have up to 30 times less impact <strong>on</strong> oz<strong>on</strong>e polluti<strong>on</strong> than disposable<br />
batteries.<br />
9 times less potential impact <strong>on</strong> air acidificati<strong>on</strong><br />
The air acidificati<strong>on</strong> indicator c<strong>on</strong>sists in <strong>the</strong> accumulati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> acidifying substances in <strong>the</strong><br />
atmosphere particules. Deposited in ecosystems by rain, <strong>the</strong>y have a str<strong>on</strong>g impact <strong>on</strong> soil and<br />
ecosystems. Rechargeable batteries have up to 9 times less impact <strong>on</strong> air acidificati<strong>on</strong> than<br />
disposable batteries.<br />
12 times less potential impact <strong>on</strong> water polluti<strong>on</strong><br />
The sedimentary ecotoxicity indicator evaluates potential toxic risks due to <strong>the</strong> emissi<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
chemicals into aquatic ecosystems. Rechargeable batteries have up to 12 times less potential<br />
toxic risks for fresh water and sea water sediments.<br />
2. Significantly reduced waste<br />
One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> additi<strong>on</strong>al benefits <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries lies in <strong>the</strong> reducti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> waste.<br />
Less waste :<br />
The study drew up a list <strong>of</strong> raw materials used for each type <strong>of</strong> battery (disposable and<br />
rechargeable), taking into account all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> materials used.<br />
Results :<br />
Less paper packaging for <strong>the</strong> rechargeable soluti<strong>on</strong>: to obtain 1 kWh <strong>of</strong> energy, <strong>on</strong>e pack <strong>of</strong><br />
rechargeable batteries is enough whereas it takes 93 packs with disposable batteries.<br />
Fewer batteries to be recycled: a sustainable soluti<strong>on</strong> for managing dead batteries and organising<br />
<strong>the</strong> recycling system.
Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study 3<br />
All rights reserved – 2007 – Uniross<br />
Source: Uniross study carried out by Bio Intelligence Service<br />
Equivalences<br />
In terms <strong>of</strong>…<br />
The impact <strong>of</strong> a rechargeable<br />
battery is equal to :<br />
Reference<br />
units<br />
Equivalence<br />
in disposable batteries:<br />
C<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> n<strong>on</strong>renewable<br />
natural resources<br />
1 k kg <strong>of</strong> petroleum extracted v 19<br />
Climate change 16 k km driven by car v 457<br />
Photochemical oxidati<strong>on</strong> 73 k km driven by car v 2 320<br />
Air acidificati<strong>on</strong> 2 122 k km driven by car v 19 812<br />
Sedimentary ecotoxicity 227 k mg <strong>of</strong> mercury emitted into <strong>the</strong> water v 2 731<br />
If all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> disposable batteries in Europe were replaced with rechargeable batteries, it would avoid:<br />
In terms <strong>of</strong>…<br />
C<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> n<strong>on</strong>-renewable<br />
natural resources<br />
II Methodology<br />
1. Life cycle analysis<br />
Avoiding an impact Avoiding an impact<br />
corresp<strong>on</strong>ding to X Europeans / year corresp<strong>on</strong>ding to<br />
106 000 210 900 t<strong>on</strong>nes <strong>of</strong> petroleum extracted<br />
If we replace all disposable batteries If we replace all disposable batteries in Europe<br />
in Europe with rechargeable <strong>on</strong>es, with rechargeable <strong>on</strong>es, we would avoid<br />
we would avoid <strong>the</strong> impact that an impact <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> n<strong>on</strong>-renewable<br />
106,000 Europeans have <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> natural resources that is comparable<br />
<strong>of</strong> n<strong>on</strong>-renewable natural resources. to extracting 210,900 t<strong>on</strong>s <strong>of</strong> petroleum.<br />
Climate change 62 110 5 billi<strong>on</strong> km driven by car<br />
Photochemical oxidati<strong>on</strong> 136 820 25 620 billi<strong>on</strong> km driven by car<br />
Air acidificati<strong>on</strong> 109 000 201 700 billi<strong>on</strong> km driven by car<br />
Sedimentary ecotoxicity 90 410 29 t<strong>on</strong>nes <strong>of</strong> mercury emitted into <strong>the</strong> water<br />
The <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> study was based <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> comparative Life Cycle Analysis method (LCA) for a<br />
rechargeable battery and its equivalence in disposable batteries.<br />
This in–depth analysis is used to evaluate <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong> a product throughout its<br />
life cycle:<br />
Producti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> disposable batteries and rechargeable batteries (and <strong>the</strong> charger), including <strong>the</strong><br />
extracti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> raw materials, producti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> basic comp<strong>on</strong>ents and assembly <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> product.<br />
Sale in shops, to <strong>the</strong> end-user customer (transport, etc.). For disposable batteries, <strong>the</strong> study also<br />
takes into account <strong>the</strong> repetiti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> this step in <strong>the</strong> analysis <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> life cycle.<br />
Use phase: this represents energy c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> when recharging rechargeable batteries.<br />
End <strong>of</strong> life: this covers waste collecti<strong>on</strong> and treatment (recycling, incinerati<strong>on</strong> or burial).<br />
The life cycle <strong>of</strong> a disposable battery is much shorter than that <strong>of</strong> a rechargeable battery; thus, to<br />
obtain <strong>the</strong> same quantity <strong>of</strong> energy, i.e. 1 kWh (unit adopted for <strong>the</strong> study), <strong>the</strong> c<strong>on</strong>sumer must<br />
repeat his purchase several times. The manufacturer must produce more batteries which would<br />
generate more polluti<strong>on</strong> and use more natural resources. Lastly, <strong>the</strong> life cycle also entails <strong>the</strong><br />
emissi<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> greenhouse gases from <strong>the</strong> transport and distributi<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> products.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> basis <strong>of</strong> this life cycle analysis, a rechargeable battery eco-pr<strong>of</strong>ile was created. The<br />
eco-pr<strong>of</strong>ile is <strong>the</strong> product’s “envir<strong>on</strong>mental identity card”.
Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study 4<br />
All rights reserved – 2007 – Uniross<br />
Source: Uniross study carried out by Bio Intelligence Service<br />
<strong>Battery</strong> Life Cycle Diagram<br />
Diagram with legend for <strong>the</strong> LCA according to <strong>the</strong> eco-pr<strong>of</strong>ile.<br />
2. Representative envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact indicators<br />
To be able to express <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> battery throughout its life cycle, 11<br />
indicators were selected. Thanks to <strong>the</strong>ir effectiveness and overall readability, 5 indicators were<br />
adopted to c<strong>on</strong>stitute <strong>the</strong> eco-pr<strong>of</strong>ile.<br />
The 5 indicators:<br />
C<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> n<strong>on</strong>-renewable natural resources;<br />
Climate change;<br />
Photochemical oxidati<strong>on</strong>;<br />
Air acidificati<strong>on</strong>;<br />
Sedimentary ecotoxicity.<br />
A basic scenario<br />
The basic scenario chosen and validated by <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> and <strong>the</strong> critical review by <strong>the</strong> Fraunh<strong>of</strong>er<br />
Institute was <strong>the</strong> following:<br />
A typical European user,<br />
Nominal battery capacity: 2500mAh,<br />
Rechargeable batteries provide 90% <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir nominal capacity with each use,<br />
Life expectancy for a rechargeable battery: 0.9 kWh <strong>of</strong> energy supplied throughout all<br />
charge/discharge cycles,<br />
Rechargeable batteries are charged with <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Sprint 1h charger,<br />
The battery charger is unplugged after each use,<br />
Frequent use and little self-discharge (daily use in an MP3 player),<br />
25% <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> batteries are recycled, 75% are collected in household waste.<br />
The functi<strong>on</strong>al unit chosen for this study was 1 kWh <strong>of</strong> energy supplied.<br />
Two scenarios were used:<br />
A 2500mAh Ni-MH rechargeable battery and its charger,<br />
A 2500mAh alkaline battery.
Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
Results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study 5<br />
All rights reserved – 2007 – Uniross<br />
Source: Uniross study carried out by Bio Intelligence Service<br />
III Partners<br />
Presentati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> Bio Intelligence Service<br />
Founded in 1989, Bio Intelligence Service is <strong>on</strong>e <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best known specialists in Europe for<br />
studies and c<strong>on</strong>sulting in <strong>the</strong> field <strong>of</strong> product envir<strong>on</strong>ment and health informati<strong>on</strong>.<br />
A pi<strong>on</strong>eer in <strong>the</strong> field <strong>of</strong> life cycle analysis, Bio Intelligence Service now <strong>of</strong>fers public and private<br />
decisi<strong>on</strong>-makers, a wide range <strong>of</strong> services in <strong>the</strong> field <strong>of</strong> quantifying <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong><br />
products and eco-design. Their missi<strong>on</strong> is highly varied, ranging from envir<strong>on</strong>mental evaluati<strong>on</strong>,<br />
to <strong>the</strong> design and realisati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental labelling <strong>of</strong> products.<br />
This study was carried out by Bio Intelligence Service <strong>on</strong> behalf <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
Critical review by <strong>the</strong> Fraunh<strong>of</strong>er Institute (IZM)<br />
The Fraunh<strong>of</strong>er Institute is recognised internati<strong>on</strong>ally in <strong>the</strong> development <strong>of</strong> future technologies<br />
applied to <strong>the</strong> electr<strong>on</strong>ics sector. The Fraunh<strong>of</strong>er Institute has str<strong>on</strong>g technical expertise in this<br />
sector, including eco-design procedures. The Institute carries out many research and<br />
development projects with industries, notably in <strong>the</strong> following fields:<br />
Integrated system technologies,<br />
Materials and Reliability,<br />
Design and sustainable development.
Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
FOCUS<br />
FOCUS<br />
The market 6<br />
The rechargeable battery market:<br />
Expansi<strong>on</strong> in use and growth<br />
We have more<br />
and more<br />
battery-operated<br />
devices today:<br />
18 devices per household<br />
in Europe in 2002<br />
23 devices per household<br />
in Europe in 2006<br />
80 %<br />
<strong>of</strong> c<strong>on</strong>sumers<br />
say <strong>the</strong>y are ready to use<br />
rechargeables*<br />
* Focus group research 2006<br />
1. Manufacturer’s data<br />
2. In France, UK, Germany and Italy<br />
Today, almost every household use batteries. For example, 83% <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> European<br />
regularly use batteries: this represents a total <strong>of</strong> 12 batteries per pers<strong>on</strong> per year that<br />
are bought and can <strong>the</strong>n be thrown away 1 .<br />
Faced with this explosi<strong>on</strong> in needs and expectati<strong>on</strong>s am<strong>on</strong>gst resp<strong>on</strong>sible c<strong>on</strong>sumers,<br />
rechargeable batteries <strong>of</strong>fer an alternative for <strong>the</strong> future vs. disposable batteries.<br />
With a growth in volume <strong>of</strong> 20% between 2005 and 2006, <strong>the</strong> European market for<br />
rechargeable batteries is exploding. Innovati<strong>on</strong> and resp<strong>on</strong>sibility now defines this<br />
particularly dynamic market, with a search for high-performance products which are<br />
more envir<strong>on</strong>mentally friendly.<br />
A pr<strong>of</strong>itable c<strong>on</strong>text<br />
1. Multiplying uses<br />
Animated toys, electr<strong>on</strong>ic games, multiple remote c<strong>on</strong>trols, MP3 players or household<br />
equipment: <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> batteries is increasing in <strong>the</strong> everyday life <strong>of</strong> European<br />
households. While disposable batteries still account for <strong>the</strong> large majority,<br />
rechargeable energy soluti<strong>on</strong>s (chargers and rechargeable batteries) c<strong>on</strong>stitute a fast<br />
growing segment.<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> rechargeable batteries meet <strong>the</strong> needs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> European people in terms <strong>of</strong><br />
energy c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong>: extended use, practicality (always available at home) and<br />
financial savings (<strong>the</strong> purchase <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries and a charger pays for itself<br />
after 5 uses). Lastly, rechargeable batteries provide real performance, notably thanks<br />
to <strong>the</strong> latest technological evoluti<strong>on</strong>s: since a rechargeable battery enables people<br />
take 5 times more photographs with a digital camera, for example, than a disposable<br />
battery.<br />
2. Envir<strong>on</strong>mental sensitivity<br />
At a time when <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental sensitivity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> European no l<strong>on</strong>ger needs<br />
proving and <strong>the</strong> public authorities are stressing <strong>the</strong> need for a change in our<br />
behaviour, <strong>the</strong> choice <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries c<strong>on</strong>stitutes a simple, resp<strong>on</strong>sible<br />
alternative for everyday c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong>. The results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> study show that <strong>the</strong><br />
envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries is up to 32 times less than that <strong>of</strong><br />
disposable batteries, throughout <strong>the</strong>ir life cycle.
The market 7<br />
1. Manufacturer’s data<br />
3. An exploding market<br />
FOCUS<br />
In 2006, 40 billi<strong>on</strong> disposable batteries were sold worldwide.<br />
In 2006, <strong>the</strong> rechargeable battery market in Europe accounted for 92 milli<strong>on</strong> units2. It<br />
is currently undergoing remarkable growth.<br />
C<strong>on</strong>sequently, rechargeable batteries are taking <strong>the</strong>ir place in major c<strong>on</strong>sumer retail<br />
outlets and specialised outlets.<br />
Key figures <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> growth <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries<br />
between 2005 and 2006 1<br />
EUROPE<br />
The rechargeable market vs. disposable batteries:<br />
+ 20 % in volume<br />
+ 10 % in value
Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
Rechargeable batteries 8<br />
Rechargeable batteries,<br />
resp<strong>on</strong>sible c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong><br />
Comp<strong>on</strong>ent<br />
sheets<br />
Electrolyte<br />
I<strong>on</strong>s<br />
Positive electrode<br />
The results <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> study show <strong>the</strong> very clear envir<strong>on</strong>mental advantages <strong>of</strong><br />
rechargeable batteries compared with disposable batteries, for <strong>the</strong> same performance.<br />
How do rechargeable batteries work? How can <strong>the</strong>ir use be optimised and how can we<br />
reduce <strong>the</strong>ir impact <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment? <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> proposes a quick user’s manual.<br />
I Disposable battery, rechargeable battery,<br />
what changes?<br />
There are two types <strong>of</strong> batteries:<br />
Single-use batteries, called disposable batteries, which c<strong>on</strong>tain a quantity <strong>of</strong> energy<br />
that is not renewable and which have a single life cycle, since <strong>the</strong>y are thrown away<br />
after each use.<br />
Rechargeable batteries can be recharged using a charger. They have a multiple life<br />
cycle and are recharged after each use.<br />
What happens inside a rechargeable battery?<br />
A rechargeable battery is made up <strong>of</strong> various sheets <strong>of</strong> comp<strong>on</strong>ents superposed and rolled<br />
up like <strong>the</strong> tobacco leaves in a cigar. At each extremity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rechargeable battery, two<br />
electrodes are c<strong>on</strong>nected through an i<strong>on</strong>ically c<strong>on</strong>ductive soluti<strong>on</strong> called an electrolyte.<br />
From chemical energy to electric energy<br />
Each time it is recharged, a rechargeable battery transforms electric energy into<br />
chemical energy. When a device needs energy, <strong>the</strong> rechargeable battery c<strong>on</strong>verts<br />
<strong>the</strong> chemical energy back into electric energy.<br />
This is where <strong>the</strong>re is a radical difference between disposable batteries and<br />
rechargeable batteries: whereas <strong>the</strong> former finish <strong>the</strong>ir life cycle and are thrown<br />
F<br />
away or head for recycling, <strong>the</strong> latter can be recharged hundreds <strong>of</strong> times with<br />
chargers.<br />
What is <strong>the</strong> capacity <strong>of</strong> a rechargeable battery?<br />
The capacity <strong>of</strong> a rechargeable battery is <strong>the</strong> quantity <strong>of</strong> energy that it<br />
can store, and release to power a device. It is expressed in mAh<br />
(milliampere-hour).<br />
The greater <strong>the</strong> capacity (mAh), <strong>the</strong> l<strong>on</strong>ger <strong>the</strong> battery will last before<br />
needing to be recharged.<br />
Today, research has made it possible to develop rechargeable batteries<br />
with a capacity <strong>of</strong> 800mAh up to 2700mAh for an R6 format.<br />
Negative electrode
FOCUS FOCUS<br />
Rechargeable batteries 9<br />
And recycling<br />
batteries?<br />
Only 25% <strong>of</strong> batteries are actually<br />
recycled, <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r 75% being thrown<br />
away into household waste without<br />
sorting. Recycling systems are being<br />
organised, but managing batteries at<br />
<strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lifetime c<strong>on</strong>tinues to<br />
be a major challenge for battery<br />
manufacturers.<br />
Reducing <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong> batteries at<br />
<strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lifetime, by using<br />
rechargeable batteries, will provide a<br />
soluti<strong>on</strong> to this serious, complex<br />
envir<strong>on</strong>mental challenge.<br />
Envir<strong>on</strong>mental<br />
and financial<br />
benefits<br />
The purchase <strong>of</strong> rechargeable<br />
batteries and a charger pays for itself<br />
after <strong>the</strong> fifth recharge. This equates<br />
to buying 5 packs <strong>of</strong> disposal<br />
batteries, whereas <strong>the</strong> rechargeable<br />
battery can be reused more than a<br />
hundred times: envir<strong>on</strong>mentally<br />
friendly as well as making substantial<br />
savings!<br />
II How can we reduce envir<strong>on</strong>mental impact<br />
as much as possible?<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> recommendati<strong>on</strong>s for optimum<br />
use <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> proposes a guide to best practices for <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> a rechargeable battery for<br />
c<strong>on</strong>sumers, in order to make <strong>the</strong> most <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> technological and envir<strong>on</strong>mental<br />
performances <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries.<br />
Maximising <strong>the</strong> useful lifetime <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries<br />
A rechargeable battery can be used several hundred times, so l<strong>on</strong>g as certain very<br />
simple rules <strong>of</strong> use are followed:<br />
Avoid using at high temperatures,<br />
Use <strong>the</strong> charger regularly,<br />
Avoid overcharging <strong>the</strong> rechargeable battery<br />
Reducing energy c<strong>on</strong>sumpti<strong>on</strong> during <strong>the</strong> use phase<br />
As a manufacturer <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> is involved in managing its<br />
products at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lifetime and stresses <strong>the</strong> crucial importance <strong>of</strong> recycling<br />
<strong>the</strong>m.<br />
Recycling saves raw materials and avoids releasing metals into <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment.<br />
Collecting disposable and rechargeable batteries makes it possible to recycle some<br />
58,000 metric t<strong>on</strong>nes <strong>of</strong> metals and to avoid emissi<strong>on</strong>s equal to 44 t<strong>on</strong>nes <strong>of</strong><br />
emissi<strong>on</strong>s into water.<br />
Recycling rechargeable batteries at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir life<br />
As a manufacturer <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> is involved in managing its<br />
products at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lifetime and stresses <strong>the</strong> crucial importance <strong>of</strong> recycling<br />
<strong>the</strong>m.<br />
Recycling saves raw materials and avoids releasing metals into <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment.<br />
Collecting disposable and rechargeable batteries makes it possible to recycle some<br />
58,000 metric t<strong>on</strong>nes <strong>of</strong> metals and to avoid emissi<strong>on</strong>s equal to 44 t<strong>on</strong>nes <strong>of</strong><br />
emissi<strong>on</strong>s into water.
Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> 10<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, technological innovati<strong>on</strong><br />
at <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>mental<br />
resp<strong>on</strong>sibility<br />
The <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Group, leader in rechargeable energy soluti<strong>on</strong>s, <strong>of</strong>fers eco-resp<strong>on</strong>sible<br />
products for c<strong>on</strong>sumers, industrials and pr<strong>of</strong>essi<strong>on</strong>als, combining performance and<br />
high envir<strong>on</strong>mental quality while providing financial advantages to <strong>the</strong> end user.<br />
Emblematic <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> new envir<strong>on</strong>ment ec<strong>on</strong>omy, with <strong>the</strong> strength <strong>of</strong> 25% annual<br />
growth over <strong>the</strong> past 5 years, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> asserts itself as a company that is committed<br />
both envir<strong>on</strong>mentally and socially.<br />
Discover a green success story with a promising future<br />
I <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> in a word<br />
1. A French and internati<strong>on</strong>al success story<br />
Founded in Bristol in 1968, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> was purchased in 1992 by Saft, an Alcatel<br />
subsidiary. In 2001, Christophe Gurtner, President <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, and 10 Managers<br />
bought <strong>the</strong> company from Saft and moved its head <strong>of</strong>fices to France. Since 2002,<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> has been developing worldwide: <strong>the</strong> company now has 14 subsidiaries<br />
across all <strong>the</strong> c<strong>on</strong>tinents<br />
Market internati<strong>on</strong>al development<br />
2002: Creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> H<strong>on</strong>g-K<strong>on</strong>g<br />
2003: Creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Batteries Corp, in Bost<strong>on</strong><br />
Creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Shanghai<br />
Creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> Zh<strong>on</strong>gshan <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Industry Co Ltd, in Xiaolan<br />
Purchase <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Batteries (PTY) Ltd, in Pretoria<br />
2005: Creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> in Australia<br />
2006: Acquisiti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> NABC, North American <strong>Battery</strong><br />
Acquisiti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> Multiplier Industries Corp. (United States)<br />
2007: Creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> India<br />
Creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Iberic
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<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> 11<br />
All about<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
www.uniross.com<br />
2. The dynamics <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> leader<br />
Since 1968, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> has been <strong>the</strong> specialist in rechargeable energy: design,<br />
producti<strong>on</strong> and distributi<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> dedicated batteries, rechargeable batteries and<br />
chargers for photographic equipment, camcorders, MP3 players, toys and many o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
applicati<strong>on</strong>s.<br />
Today, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> is <strong>on</strong>e <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world leaders and a recognised specialist in<br />
rechargeable equipment (No. 1 in Europe, No. 1 in India and No. 1 in South Africa).<br />
In July 2006, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> was listed <strong>on</strong> Eur<strong>on</strong>ext Paris’ Stock Exchange.<br />
With an estimated turnover <strong>of</strong> 100 milli<strong>on</strong> euros for <strong>the</strong> 2007-2008 fiscal year,<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> employs 750 people around <strong>the</strong> world. <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> products are distributed in<br />
80 countries worldwide.<br />
3. A product <strong>of</strong>fering for c<strong>on</strong>sumers, industrials and<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essi<strong>on</strong>als<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>of</strong>fers soluti<strong>on</strong>s for c<strong>on</strong>sumers: <strong>the</strong> rechargeable batteries and<br />
chargers that can be found in 3 retail circuits (Supermarkets, DIY Superstores<br />
and Specialised Superstores).<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> also designs energy soluti<strong>on</strong>s (batteries and chargers) for industrial<br />
portable applicati<strong>on</strong>s (robotics, electr<strong>on</strong>ic payment terminals, lighting, e-bikes,<br />
etc).<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>of</strong>fers replacement energy soluti<strong>on</strong>s (batteries and chargers) for<br />
portable equipment for pr<strong>of</strong>essi<strong>on</strong>al use (scanners, all types <strong>of</strong> transceivers).<br />
The <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> group is No. 1 in North America.<br />
II <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, an eco-citizen company<br />
committed to protecting<br />
<strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment<br />
Above and bey<strong>on</strong>d its products, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> is committed to sustainable development<br />
and is helping to make progress in reflecti<strong>on</strong>s <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong>se challenges.<br />
1. RECHARGE, European Associati<strong>on</strong> in Brussels<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> is committed to protecting <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment and is a co-founder <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
European associati<strong>on</strong>, RECHARGE, whose purpose is to promote <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong><br />
rechargeable batteries and to increase <strong>the</strong> rate <strong>of</strong> battery collecti<strong>on</strong> and recycling<br />
(disposable and rechargeable) when <strong>the</strong>y reach <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lifetime.
Printed <strong>on</strong> recycled paper<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> 12<br />
2. WWF-<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> partnership: expertise at <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong><br />
envir<strong>on</strong>mental resp<strong>on</strong>sibility<br />
Because batteries are a real envir<strong>on</strong>mental challenge every day, <strong>the</strong> WWF, a<br />
worldwide organisati<strong>on</strong> for <strong>the</strong> protecti<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> nature, and <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> signed a 3-year<br />
partnership agreement in May 2006.<br />
This partnership covers Africa and 40 countries in Europe. Its objective is to introduce<br />
public awareness <strong>on</strong>:<br />
<strong>the</strong> ecological advantages <strong>of</strong> Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries<br />
and chargers.<br />
<strong>the</strong> need to recycle <strong>the</strong>m.<br />
The partnership has already instigated <strong>the</strong> launch <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> rechargeable batteries<br />
and chargers with <strong>the</strong> WWF logo. Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> has committed to providing<br />
financial support to <strong>the</strong> WWF to encourage <strong>the</strong> implementati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> acti<strong>on</strong>s for<br />
protecting <strong>the</strong> envir<strong>on</strong>ment.<br />
3. The <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Circle for Sustainable Development in Acti<strong>on</strong>:<br />
federating mobilisati<strong>on</strong><br />
Created at <strong>the</strong> initiative <strong>of</strong> Christophe Gurtner, CEO <strong>of</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>, <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Circle is<br />
both a place for meetings and exchanges and a think tank focusing <strong>on</strong> acti<strong>on</strong>. This<br />
Circle’s aim is to increase awareness am<strong>on</strong>g decisi<strong>on</strong>-makers for <strong>the</strong> implementati<strong>on</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> c<strong>on</strong>crete acti<strong>on</strong>s to promote sustainable development.<br />
At quarterly breakfast meetings, <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Circle welcomes speakers, recognised<br />
for <strong>the</strong>ir skills <strong>on</strong> <strong>the</strong> topic <strong>of</strong> sustainable development, for in-depth discussi<strong>on</strong>s and<br />
forming innovative, effective partnerships.<br />
III <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> and its management<br />
1. Christophe Gurtner: Chief Executive Officer<br />
A graduate <strong>of</strong> ISC, Christophe Gurtner began his career at Saft, in <strong>the</strong> field <strong>of</strong> batteries<br />
and chargers. After being in charge <strong>of</strong> marketing lithium batteries at <strong>the</strong> German<br />
subsidiary, he held <strong>the</strong> positi<strong>on</strong>s <strong>of</strong> Export Z<strong>on</strong>e Manager for Nor<strong>the</strong>rn and Sou<strong>the</strong>rn<br />
Europe, for Africa and <strong>the</strong> Middle East, <strong>the</strong>n moved to <strong>the</strong> sales department for France<br />
in <strong>the</strong> portable battery divisi<strong>on</strong>, before being named General Manager <strong>of</strong> Saft in<br />
Germany.<br />
Then, in 1998, Saft entrusted him with <strong>the</strong> creati<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> a divisi<strong>on</strong> covering all <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
groups assets in <strong>the</strong> field <strong>of</strong> rechargeable batteries for <strong>the</strong> c<strong>on</strong>sumer market:<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> and a divisi<strong>on</strong> based in <strong>the</strong> United States.
FOCUS<br />
FOCUS<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> 13<br />
For more <strong>on</strong><br />
rechargeable<br />
batteries<br />
www.recharge<strong>on</strong>slaplanete.com<br />
C<strong>on</strong>tact <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
Carole Courtin<br />
+33 (0)1 60 95 49 88<br />
carole.courtin@uniross.com<br />
In 2000, he was put in charge <strong>of</strong> selling <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g>. With his 13 years <strong>of</strong> experience in<br />
<strong>the</strong> battery field and a desire to undertake his own project, he managed to c<strong>on</strong>vince<br />
<strong>the</strong> Saft management to accept an LBO. He asked 10 supervisors who had joined <strong>the</strong><br />
company in <strong>the</strong> previous 2 years to take part in <strong>the</strong> LBO. Christophe Gurtner is now<br />
<strong>the</strong> CEO <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Group and <strong>the</strong> majority shareholder..<br />
2. Jérôme Valentin : Chief Operating Officer<br />
Engineering graduate from <strong>the</strong> Ecole Centrale in Ly<strong>on</strong>, with a Master’s in Electr<strong>on</strong>ics<br />
from <strong>the</strong> University <strong>of</strong> Salford (UK) and a Master’s in Management from ESC-Paris,<br />
Jerome Valentin, 48, started his career at <strong>the</strong> Saft group.<br />
He <strong>the</strong>n joined <strong>the</strong> Tyco Group, where he successively held positi<strong>on</strong>s as Director <strong>of</strong><br />
Marketing & Sales for Europe and Regi<strong>on</strong>al Director in Singapore. He <strong>the</strong>n headed <strong>the</strong><br />
Energy Divisi<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Tyco Electr<strong>on</strong>ics Group before joining <strong>the</strong> Schindler Group.<br />
Back from Asia, where he held <strong>the</strong> positi<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> Executive Vice President for <strong>the</strong><br />
Schindler Group, he returned to <strong>the</strong> business sector in which he had started his<br />
career.<br />
Jerome Valentin holds <strong>the</strong> positi<strong>on</strong> <strong>of</strong> Chief Operating Officer <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>UNIROSS</str<strong>on</strong>g> Group.