MANILA, Philippines - Because batteries are convenient, affordable and easy to obtain, they have become an ordinary household item. However, ecologists are convinced that batteries pose considerable danger to the environment since these contain lead, mercury and cadmium. The metals can leach out from the battery’s casing and contaminate ground water or, when burned, will adversely affect air quality. These can bioaccumulate or build up to toxic levels in a person’s system, eventually causing certain types of cancer, poisoning, or renal, respiratory and other illnesses.
Considering the wide application of batteries however, it would be difficult for the ordinary consumer to forgo these completely. Thus, Akari’s new line of multiple-use and rechargeable models is the better alternative to disposable batteries regardless of how long-lasting the latter types claim to be. By using reusable products that last a long time, fewer items find their way into the trash.
At a recent event to introduce Akari’s breakthrough battery line, vice president for sales of Carlson Corporation, Carter Tiu, said that the main advantage of the Akari brand is its superior performance. “Akari presents its new rechargeable innovations not only to address the practical demands of Filipinos for energy and cost-saving products, but also to provide them with light and power, especially in times of emergency,” he said.
Tiu explains that power outages are an inconvenience that can happen without warning especially in this season of typhoons. Making batteries that can be recharged and reused for up to 1,000 cycles is the cost- effective and ecologically literate choice.
“Akari batteries are energy-efficient, heavy- duty and multi-functional,” continues Tiu. They power the brand’s small appliances including the LED rechargeable emergency light with built-in AM/FM radio and mobile charger; and rechargeable LED lamp with radio and 10-inch oscillating fan. Other models incorporate night lights, bigger fans, search lights and blinkers. “These are products that help us cope with the brownouts,” adds Tiu. Consumers will agree. The rechargeable fans, in particular, will prove very handy especially when a brownout occurs. Those with young children who become uncomfortable with the heat will especially appreciate the handiness of an Akari oscillating fan. The product certainly beats the tedium and effort of manually fanning fretful children any day.
“We are a company that provides you light and a whole lot more,” says Tiu. Undoubtedly, Akari’s LED lamps are also safer than candles during power outages. LED bulbs in Akari lamps remain functional for many years, use up less energy and remain cool to the touch, thereby eliminating the danger of accidental scorching. Certain emergency light models can remain operational for up to 100 hours, and are available from more than 1,000 outlets and retail and hardware stores throughout the Philippines. Apart from batteries, rechargeable fans and emergency and LED lighting, the brand also carries LED fixtures, circulators and exhaust fans.
One of the newest products is the USB rechargeable Ni-MH battery. This is a battery that one can charge using either a USB port or ordinary charger. Handy and efficient, the battery was likewise designed with the consumer’s convenience in mind.
“Our goal is to make our rechargeable products accessible to everyone,” says Tiu. The Akari product range was launched in the Philippines in 2002 and won ‘Top Lighting Brand’ at the National Consumer Quality Awards in 2003. Akari products continue to gain a loyal following. They are affordably priced, come with a warranty, are efficient, reliable and simple to operate.