Apple’s new watch lineup highlights commitment to environmental sustainability
Apple has often been at the forefront of technology and innovation, and it seems the company is extending this ethos to tackle climate change. The technology giant has announced its first-ever carbon neutral products with its new Apple Watch lineup, aiming to achieve ambitious environmental goals by the end of the decade.
“At Apple, we have a longstanding and proven commitment to leading the fight against climate change. Our focus on renewable energy and low-carbon design has already driven industry-leading emissions reductions, and we’re not slowing down,”
Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives.
A comprehensive approach to product decarbonization
Apple is prioritizing the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by focusing on the three biggest sources across a product’s life cycle: electricity, materials, and transportation. The company aims to offset remaining emissions through high-quality carbon credits from nature-based projects.
The criteria for a carbon neutral Apple Watch
According to the stringent standards set by Apple, each carbon neutral watch must meet specific criteria. These include 100 percent clean electricity for manufacturing and product use, 30 percent recycled or renewable material by weight, and at least 50 percent of shipping without the use of air transportation. All these combined efforts result in a 75 percent reduction in product emissions for each model.
Progress over a decade
Apple has been working on its commitment to sustainability for over ten years. In 2020, the company achieved carbon neutrality for its global corporate operations and unveiled its plan to be carbon neutral across its entire value chain by 2030. By focusing on activities that lower carbon emissions and expanding the use of renewable energy, Apple has managed to reduce its total emissions by over 45 percent since 2015.
Innovations in clean electricity
The manufacturing for the new Apple Watch lineup is entirely powered by clean electricity. Apple’s suppliers have committed to 100 percent renewable electricity for all of their Apple production by the end of this decade. These collaborations have allowed Apple and its global suppliers to support more than 15 gigawatts of clean energy worldwide.
Leading in low-carbon design
The company is eliminating the use of leather across all product lines and introducing a new textile called FineWoven. This new material is made from 68 percent post-consumer recycled content and has a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional leather.
- 100% clean electricity for manufacturing and product use
- 30% recycled or renewable material by weight
- 50% of shipping without air transportation
- Reduction of product emissions by at least 75%
- New material FineWoven replaces leather
- 100% recycled rare earth magnets in key components
- 82% recycled yarn in the redesigned Sport Loop
Sustainable future
Apple’s latest announcement could signify a monumental shift in the consumer technology landscape. It reflects a commitment to long-term environmental goals that are crucial in the fight against climate change. As we look toward a future that needs to be more sustainable, such steps can serve as a template for other companies to follow, addressing the urgent challenges that we face globally.
