‘One charger fits all’ design approved

According to ITU, every mobile phone user will benefit from the Universal Charging Solution (UCS), which enables the same charger to be used for all future handsets, regardless of make and model. In addition to cutting the number of chargers produced, shipped and subsequently discarded as new models become available, the new standard will mean users worldwide will be able to charge their mobiles anywhere from any available charger, while reducing the energy consumed while charging. The UCS standard was based on input from the GSM Alliance, which predicts a 50% reduction in standby energy consumption through use of the new charger, as well as the elimination of 51,000 tonnes of redundant chargers. A further benefit is a reduction of 13.6million tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions each year. Director of ITU's Telecommunication Standardisation Bureau Malcolm Johnson said: "This is a significant step in reducing the environmental impact of mobile charging, which also has the benefit of making mobile phone use more straightforward. Universal chargers are a commonsense solution that I look forward to seeing in other areas." Based on the Micro USB interface, UCS chargers will also include a 4 star or higher efficiency rating – up to three times more energy efficient than an unrated charger.