With its 2021 lineup of QLED and 8K 4K TVs, Samsung is introducing an environmentally friendly remote control that the company claims will „reduce tons of plastic waste annually“ and increase its efforts to reduce its environmental impact.

From the front, the Eco remote looks like any Samsung TV in recent years. But turn it over and you will see a long panel of solar cells that can charge the internal battery. The remote control is made of 31 grams of plastic, and Samsung says 28 percent of it comes from „recycled polyethylene terephthalate“.

Photography by Chris Welsh / The Verge

Samsung estimates that you will be able to use Eco Remote Control for two years before its battery runs out and needs a full recharge. Overall, the internal rechargeable battery is designed to last approximately seven years, or the average life cycle of a single TV set. This will definitely save you from buying a handful of AAA batteries over the years, and the reduction in plastic waste is noticeable as well.

The USB-C port is located at the bottom if you need to charge the remote control faster for any reason.

Photo: Samsung

Samsung also continues its green packaging efforts in 2021. “By eliminating oil-based ink and expanding eco-friendly packaging for all Lifestyle and QLED TV models, Samsung offers a sustainable solution that can recycle and operate up to 200,000 tons of boxes annually. Into pieces of home decor. “ After unpacking your TV, you can scan the QR code on its box for instructions on how to turn it into something you want. Probably You want to stay around. Samsung Partnered with Seas For a contest that encouraged people to devise smart ways to reuse cardboard boxes.

correction: The article originally mentioned that the remote control had a shelf life of up to two years, due to Samsung’s marketing materials stating that it „can be used for up to two years“. In fact, the company explained, the internal battery can last for up to seven years to match the average TV life cycle.