Apple moves toward carbon neutrality with fully fiber-based packaging and PCR content

15 Sep 2023 --- Apple has announced its first entirely fiber-based packaging for the new Apple Watch lineup and the expansion of recycled materials in the iPhone.

The company unveiled progress in its Apple 2030 commitment, this week, introducing a range of initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and minimize environmental impact. Apple’s new endeavors encompass packaging materials, carbon offset strategies and using recycled and renewable resources.

Fiber-based packaging for Apple Watch
The switch to fiber-based packaging for Apple’s watches marks a step toward reducing reliance on traditional materials like plastics. According to Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, the company has “achieved an important milestone in making the world’s most popular watch carbon neutral [and] will keep innovating to meet the urgency of the moment.”

Apple is replacing leather across all of its product lines and introducing FineWoven, a new textile made from 68% PCR content.“Our focus on renewable energy and low-carbon design has already driven industry-leading emissions reductions and we’re not slowing down,” says Jackson.

The transition to fiber-based packaging extends to the packaging of every iPhone 15 model, with over 99% of the material being fiber-based. This initiative aligns with Apple’s accelerated efforts to achieve plastic-free packaging by 2025.

Shift from leather to FineWoven
Apple is discontinuing the use of leather across all its product lines, including iPhone accessories and Apple Watch bands. Instead, the company is adopting a new textile called FineWoven, crafted from 68% PCR content.

This material, offering a soft, suede-like texture and a subtle luster, is now available in iPhone MagSafe cases wallets and the Magnetic Link and Modern Buckle Apple Watch bands.

Apple shares that the new FineWoven material has considerably lower emissions than traditional leather. Furthermore, the newly launched iPhone 15 and the Apple Watch lineup incorporate recycled materials in key components, including 100% recycled rare earth magnets and 100% recycled cobalt in the battery. 

The Sport Loop, a popular accessory, now features 82% recycled yarn, partly sourced from discarded fishing nets.

These measures contribute to Apple’s 2030 goal of achieving carbon neutrality for every product it produces, encompassing the entire supply chain and the entire lifetime use of each device.

Carbon neutrality and carbon credits
Apple has also committed to offsetting residual emissions from its products by purchasing high-quality carbon credits, primarily from nature-based projects. 

These projects aim to remove carbon from the atmosphere by restoring grasslands, wetlands and forests. The move aligns with global climate goals, recognizing the significance of carbon removal in addressing climate change.

To offset emissions, Apple utilizes credits from projects that adhere to international standards, such as Verra, the Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standards and the Forest Stewardship Council.

Supplier Clean Energy Program
Apple’s commitment extends to its supplier network – the company reported new commitments from over 50 suppliers across the US, Europe and Asia, driving growth in its Supplier Clean Energy Program.The new Apple Watch lineup features recycled metals in key components, including 100% recycled aluminum. 

This program now represents over 90% of Apple’s direct manufacturing spend.

Sarah Chandler, Apple’s vice president of Environment and Supply Chain Innovation, emphasizes the urgency of reducing emissions and protecting against the impacts of climate change.

“As we experience record temperatures and devastating storms, we all have an urgent responsibility to reduce emissions and protect against the worst impacts of climate change. At Apple, we’re proud that so many of our suppliers are taking action as we drive progress toward a carbon-neutral future.”

Manufacturing, identified as the largest source of emissions in Apple’s carbon footprint, remains a primary focus in achieving carbon neutrality, intending to reduce emissions by 75% by the end of the decade.

By Radhika Sikaria