Apple Inc. is recognized for making extraordinary efforts to combat climate change. In fact, since 2015, the company has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 60%. The tech giant has pledged to reduce at least 75% of its emissions by 2030. It’s reported that it’s already blown past the halfway point of meeting this ambitious target. This announced effort is just the beginning of Apple’s climate and environmental leadership as the company assumes full ownership of and wrestles with the complexities of greenhouse gas reduction.
The company works aggressively with semiconductor suppliers. Together, they’re taking a stand against the detrimental impact of fluorinated greenhouse gases to protect people and communities. Now, 26 of Apple’s semiconductor suppliers have gone all-in on this promise. They are committing to reduce at least 90% of the gases that cause harm within their own operations. This international collective action is nothing short of historic with respect to Apple’s steps—and missteps—on the journey toward a truly sustainable supply chain.
Nature-based solutions to climate change — like reforestation — are Apple’s preferred avenue for immediate-term emissions reduction. In addition to these projects, the company is investing in breakthrough technologies including direct air capture. By combining both strategies, Apple’s goal isn’t just to reduce its carbon footprint, but to reduce it completely.
To counterbalance that last quarter—25% —of its emissions, Apple has committed to investing in carbon removal projects. This innovative and forward-thinking approach further emphasizes the infrastructure company’s dedication to long-term sustainability objectives. On top of that, Apple is doing its part to make sure that its products are included in this green push. Even the base model Mac Mini still emits an estimated 32 kg of carbon pollution over its lifetime. Conversely, the most powerful version with 64GB of RAM and 8TB of internal storage already generates a significantly bigger footprint of 121 kg.
Apple, for instance, has touted its global progress in eliminating Scope 3 emissions. These emissions are some of the most difficult to address, as they are beyond a company’s immediate purview. Apple insists that it is already more than halfway there on its goal of tackling these indirect emissions.
Apple’s new Watch Series 9 does more than passively aid sustainability initiatives. Most notably, it does this by buying renewable power for all its customers. This commitment makes for an exciting addition to Apple’s product lineup and more importantly, furthers its commitment to a greener future.
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