Power banks: devices or batteries?
Lifesaver at festivals, essential companion during a long journey… We all know them: those handy power banks that can charge your smartphone or tablet in no time, without the need for a plug socket.
But… did you also know that a power bank isn’t considered an electronic device? In fact, a power bank is actually a battery! So, when it reaches the end of its life, it belongs at a Bebat collection point.
Why is a power bank a battery?
There’s no magical device inside a power bank producing electricity. It’s basically just a rechargeable battery in a case, with a clever circuit to ensure you can safely charge your phone.
Inside a power bank, you’ll usually find one or more lithium-ion batteries that you can easily recharge over and over again with a charging cable. The casing does contain some electronics, but these are only there to make sure the battery charges and discharges safely.
What’s the difference compared to a ‘regular’ device?
A device – such as a flashlight, a smartphone or a radio – has a clear function of its own. For example, providing light, making calls, or playing music. These devices use energy from a battery or from mains electricity. No battery inside? Then it’s still a device, it just lacks the necessary power supply.
A power bank, however, doesn’t have its own function, except for storing and transmitting energy. So, it’s simply a battery in a jacket. Although it might look like a device, there’s nothing useful left without the battery inside, except for a minimal amount of electronics to monitor and regulate charging.
And what if your power bank is broken?
Has your power bank given up the ghost and stopped working? Then it’s time to dispose of it and give it a new life.
Of course, a discarded power bank does not belong in general waste, PMC or paper. And… also not with old electrical appliances, because it’s a battery. So, you simply take it to a Bebat collection point! Power banks with an extra function such as a light or a display are welcome at a Recupel point for old electronics – just like your other discarded devices.
This way, all power banks are processed and recycled safely. The raw materials are also given a new life in other applications.
