Sanyo introduced the new "eneloop" battery, which is a rechargeable NiMH battery useable right off the shelf. Unlike previous rechargeable batteries, which have limited shelf life because of their rapid discharge, these batteries retain 85% of their charge even after one year. Because this battery can be used for thousands of charges and is easily recycled, it is much more convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly than the traditional single-use batteries.