Sustainability has become an important concept in all industries. The truth is, without adjusting our use of resources and developing sustainable practices, the Earth will become unliveable.
Agriculture is one industry that utilises a lot of natural resources and, its use of chemicals has the potential to cause serious environmental harm. Of course, it’s an essential industry to ensure people across the world have enough to eat.
When sustainability and agriculture are discussed, focus is usually placed on the harvest, and what methods are used to increase the yield. Alongside this, emphasis is placed on the integration of plant and animal production.
However, there is one key area which is just as important, and often overlooked. That’s the machinery used on the farm, in particular tractor batteries.
There is no doubt that the use of tractors and associated farm machinery makes it easier and faster to produce the significant amount of crops needed by the world.
Tractors and their accessories are generally made of steel. Impressively, steel is 100% recyclable and as much as 70% of the steel produced across the planet is made from recycled material.
In short, the tractor can last for years and then be recycled into another tractor! The bigger issue for sustainability is the tractor battery. It has a limited life and, although it can be recycled, it is a difficult process. In addition, the contents are hazardous which can cause severe problems if the battery is damaged, especially while farming.
That’s why, all agricultural businesses should invest in high-quality tractor batteries and understand the difference between batteries.
Types of tractor batteries
There are several types you need to be aware of:
Gel
These batteries are designed to prevent liquid leakage. However, they are delicate and need to be operated in temperature-controlled environments. Maintenance isn’t necessary and there is no lead content.
AGM
AGM batteries are cleverly designed to combine gas with water and create electricity at a minimal consumption level. It still uses acid, but this is absorbed into fibreglass mats. This allows more lead plates to be inserted, increasing the power output while minimising the risk of acid leakage.
These are the cheapest option but are full of acid and need regular maintenance to ensure the acid level remains consistent and power output is maximised.
How choosing the right battery helps sustainability
The cheapest battery is not always the best or most sustainable option. When choosing tractor batteries it’s essential to consider the size of your tractor, the type of terrain you usually farm on, and the power output of your battery.
The larger your tractor and the heavier the workload, the greater the power of the battery required.
But power output isn’t enough. You need to consider the time you have to maintain the battery, how variable the temperature is, and the length of time you’ll be using your tractor.
Alongside this, allow for the power drain by your various tractor accessories.
Why it matters
Putting all the variables together means you’ll choose tractor batteries which can be easily looked after and will last for extended periods. That reduces the need to replace the battery and adds to the environmental damage being caused to the planet.
It’s not just the disposal of tractor batteries which can damage the environment, it’s the creation of batteries. High-quality batteries are essential if you want to minimise maintenance and environmental damage.
