Apple, the technology giant known for its focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, has announced a new challenge: to use only recycled cobalt in its batteries by 2025. The company has also set a target to use 100% recycled gold in its circuit boards by the same deadline. These ambitious goals are part of Apple’s broader plan to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire production chain by 2030.
Cobalt, a material with significant environmental impact, is currently used in the production of hundreds of millions of Apple devices every year. However, less than 30% of the world’s cobalt undergoes recycling processes. By focusing on recycling cobalt and reusing it multiple times, Apple aims to significantly reduce the environmental cost of this material.
In a press release, the company outlined its progress towards incorporating more recycled and renewable materials across its product range. Some of the milestones achieved by Apple so far include:
- In 2022, about 20% of all material shipped in Apple products came from recycled or renewable sources.
- The company plans to use entirely recycled rare earth elements in magnets for Apple devices by 2025.
- Apple has committed to using 100% recycled tin soldering and 100% recycled gold plating in all “Apple-designed” printed circuit boards by 2025.
Apple’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own products, as the company is working to encourage the broader adoption of recycled materials throughout the electronics industry. One of the ways it does this is by developing and deploying innovative technologies, such as augmented reality systems and recycling robots, to improve the efficiency of the recycling process.
Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, and Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, Lisa Jackson, have both emphasised the importance of integrating environmental protection into every aspect of the company’s operations. Their ambitious goals for recycling cobalt, gold, and other materials form part of a comprehensive roadmap towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.
However, Apple’s efforts alone will not be enough to solve the global problem of electronic waste. With an estimated 5.3 billion of the 16 billion mobile devices in use predicted to become e-waste in 2022, it is crucial for consumers and businesses to actively participate in recycling their devices. Apple’s high-profile commitment to sustainability serves as an important catalyst for change, encouraging other companies and individuals to take responsibility for their environmental impact.
Apple’s ambitious goal of using 100% recycled cobalt in its batteries by 2025 demonstrates the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By setting the bar high, Apple is not only reducing its own ecological footprint but also inspiring other companies and consumers to follow suit. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, such ambitious, cooperative, and responsible leadership is more important than ever.
