Apple revealed that it has successfully slashed its greenhouse gas emissions by over 55 percent since 2015, positioning itself as a leader in environmental stewardship within the tech industry.
This remarkable achievement was disclosed as part of Apple’s 2024 Environmental Progress Report, which also outlined the company’s ongoing commitment to achieving carbon neutrality across its entire value chain by the end of the decade.
Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “The proof of Apple’s commitment to climate action is in our progress: We’ve slashed emissions by more than half, all while serving more users than ever before.” Jackson highlighted the importance of continued innovation and collaboration in maximizing Apple’s environmental impact.
Apple’s ambitious environmental goals, encapsulated by its Apple 2030 initiative, aim to reduce emissions by an impressive 75 percent from 2015 levels. The company’s multifaceted approach to achieving this target includes substantial progress in clean energy adoption, energy efficiency enhancements, sustainable materials sourcing, carbon removal initiatives, water stewardship, zero waste strategies, and recycling innovations.
One notable achievement highlighted in Apple’s report is the substantial increase in the use of recycled critical materials. Last year alone, 56 percent of the cobalt and 24 percent of the lithium used in Apple batteries were sourced from recycled materials. This includes the groundbreaking MacBook Air with M3, the first Apple product made with 50 percent recycled content.
Moreover, Apple’s commitment extends beyond its own operations to its vast global supply chain. The company’s Supplier Clean Energy Program, now supporting over 16.5 gigawatts of renewable energy worldwide, has played a pivotal role in slashing manufacturing emissions. Over 100 supplier facilities achieved significant electricity savings last year, collectively avoiding nearly 1.7 million metric tons of carbon emissions.
In addition to reducing emissions, Apple has been at the forefront of designing innovative, sustainable packaging solutions. The company’s transition to fiber-based alternatives has significantly reduced plastic usage, with only 3 percent of Apple’s product packaging composed of plastic last year.
Furthermore, Apple’s environmental initiatives extend to community partnerships aimed at addressing climate change’s disproportionate impacts. Through its Strengthen Local Communities program, Apple is supporting organizations worldwide in safeguarding community health and wellbeing.
Looking ahead, Apple remains committed to advancing the field of electronics recycling through groundbreaking technologies like disassembly robot Daisy and recycling machines Dave and Taz. These innovations exemplify Apple’s dedication to maximizing resource efficiency and promoting a circular economy.
As Earth Day approaches, Apple is engaging its global community of customers and employees through educational programs, special events, and environmental challenges aimed at inspiring positive action towards a sustainable future.
Apple’s remarkable progress underscores its role as a trailblazer in corporate sustainability and sets a compelling example for the tech industry and beyond, demonstrating that ambitious climate goals can be achieved through innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.
