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Rechargeable vs. Disposable Batteries

Editor: Ruth Medyani, Sharah Saputra, Gloria FJ (LCI Team)


Batteries power many aspects of our modern lives—from TV remotes and wall clocks to digital cameras and children’s toys. Behind their convenience, lies a question: Should we choose rechargeable or disposable batteries? The answer is more important than it seems, especially when its cost, usability, and environmental impacts are considered.


One of the main reasons consumers still choose disposable batteries is their low price. Alkaline batteries, for instance, are inexpensive and widely available. On the other hand, rechargeable batteries cost more. However, they are designed to be used hundreds of times. Hence, they can be more economical over time.


Beyond cost, the environmental benefit of rechargeable batteries is substantial—especially when viewed through the lens of a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This scientific method evaluates a product’s total environmental impact, from raw material extraction to end-of-life.


To accurately compare the two battery types, it's essential to clearly define the scope. In this case, the comparison focused on evaluating the difference between using 50 new disposable batteries versus using one rechargeable battery that is recharged 50 times.


In terms of climate change impact—a commonly used metric in sustainability assessments—rechargeable batteries emit only 2.53 kg CO₂-equivalent, compared to 10.40 kg CO₂-equivalent for disposable alkaline batteries (based on LCA study by HHC, 2025). This represents a 76% reduction in carbon emissions when using a rechargeable battery over multiple charging cycles.

The key reason? Rechargeable batteries eliminate the need for repetitive production, packaging, and transportation. Instead, the same battery is used and recharged many times, minimising raw material extraction and manufacturing energy inputs.


Although rechargeable batteries showed slightly higher impacts in specific categories such as ozone depletion and marine eutrophication—due to certain chemical components used in their manufacture—these are outweighed by the benefits in overall climate and resource efficiency.


Final Verdict: Small Choice, Big Impact


Choosing between rechargeable and disposable batteries might seem like a small decision, but the long-term environmental and economic impact is significant. 


Quick Comparison

Category

Rechargeable Batteries

Disposable Batteries

Upfront Cost

Higher

Lower

Long-term Cost

More economical

More expensive if used often

Waste Generated

Less

More

Production Emissions

Higher per unit, but spread out

Lower per unit, but accumulates

Charging Energy

Requires additional energy for charging, but minimal

Does not require additional energy

Best For

High-drain, frequent-use devices

Low-drain, infrequent-use devices

Battery life is not always straightforward—it depends greatly on how and where the battery is used. For low-drain devices like remote controls or wall clocks, high-quality disposable batteries may initially last longer per charge than their rechargeable counterparts. However, in high-drain devices such as cameras or gaming controllers, rechargeable batteries often offer superior performance over time.


Another advantage of rechargeables is their flexibility. Unlike disposables, you don’t need to wait until they are fully drained. This ease of recharging contributes to a more practical and extended battery life in everyday use.


When it comes to convenience, disposable batteries still have a slight edge. They're ready to use straight out of the package and widely available in stores. In contrast, rechargeable batteries typically require an initial charge, which may take several hours, and they require a compatible charger.


Measuring What Matters


As a sustainability consultant, Life Cycle Indonesia (LCI) helps companies quantify environmental impacts using tools like Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). From batteries to packaging to manufacturing systems, we believe in making decisions based on data—not assumptions.


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