Pure could launch solar-powered radio

"If the technology works"

24 July 2008 11:07 GMT / By Chris Hall

At an London press event, Pure today outlined their commitment to their EcoPlus programme and the strength of their association with the Energy Saving Trust, who approve a growing number of Pure’s DAB radios.

When asked about whether there were any plans to launch a solar-powered radio, following the launch of rival Roberts' solarDAB, Colin Crawford, director of marketing for Pure, said he was "delighted" to see eco movement from other manufacturers, before saying: "If it makes sense, if the technology works and it fits in our product range", then Pure would pursue it, before outlining that their EcoPlus programme wasn’t just about one radio, but a range.

The EST endorsement is just the tip of the iceberg, as Pure confirmed that all packaging, literature and marketing material was from recycled sources, as well as using the smallest packaging available to reduce waste, and choosing the most eco-friendly materials and components to ensure that as little as possible ends up in landfill at the land of the product’s life.

The Energy Saving Trust approval criteria basically includes strict guidelines on power consumption, both in use and in standby, and the use of rechargeable batteries. To reduce the number of batteries hitting landfill the Pure ChargePAK, a plug-in rechargeable unit, is available which they claim could prevent consumers from throwing away as many as 180 "C" cell batteries.

DAB continues to grow and DRDB figures tell us there were 19 products in 2002 which has grown to 360 in 2008, with 7.3 million DAB radios in UK homes and a market worth £170 million.