Daisy, Apple’s recycling robot
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A new report shows that Apple continues to go above and beyond its direct competitors when it comes to cutting its carbon footprint.
Sustainability is a big deal for Apple, which is why it stands above its competition when it comes to implementing environmental sustainability initiatives.
As Counterpoint Research notes, about 80% of a smartphone’s carbon footprint is in its production, and companies can take steps to help reduce the pressure on the environment.
But those aren’t the only places the company can make changes. Manufacturers can also make a difference by making products that last longer, are easier to repair, and can be reused or recycled once the user is done with them.
“each one [smartphone manufacturer] It has its own perspective and holistic approach to sustainability,” writes Counterpoint Research. Apple’s vision seems clearer than the competition and its actions support that vision.”
The report highlights how Apple has taken steps to keep its manufacturing processes green while also working to keep older phone models running longer.
Samsung came in second and scored highly in repairability, energy efficiency, and after-sales networks.
The report also suggests that smartphone makers can boost their durability scores by partnering with reputable resellers and third-party repair companies.
By giving consumers easy ways to fix a broken device or trade in an old device when it’s time to upgrade, companies can work to keep devices out of landfills.
In 2020, Apple became a carbon neutral company. Lisa Jackson, Apple’s senior vice president, noted that the company achieved this not only by purchasing carbon credits, but also by prioritizing clean energy.
The Cupertino-based tech giant has also made great strides when it comes to recycling components for reuse. Apple uses Daisy, a recycling robot, that strips 1.2 million iPhones for parts every year.
In 2016, Apple joined a global initiative called RE100, in which they sought to transition entirely to renewable energy. In the spring of 2018, Apple announced that its data centers, retail stores, and Apple Park headquarters in Cupertino are all running on 100 percent renewable energy.
