Apple’s net zero goals
Apple, a leading technology company, pledges net zero by 2030. The goal: eliminating its carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. This is part of Apple’s sustainability strategy, focused on reducing environmental impact and promoting renewable energy.
Read more in the Apple sustainability report
Key focus areas
Reducing carbon emissions
Apple aims to reduce its carbon footprint through:
- Renewable energy sources
- Improved energy efficiency
- Waste reduction
In the United States, all Apple operations use renewable energy. The company is working on reducing carbon emissions in its supply chain as well.
Carbon offsetting
Apple invests in carbon offset projects to offset remaining emissions. Investments include:
- A wind farm in China
- A reforestation project in Colombia
Carbon capture and removal
Apple explores carbon capture and removal technologies, such as:
- Carbon capture: storing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes underground
- Carbon removal: removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere with direct air capture
Investments include a partnership with Conservation International to protect and restore forests in Colombia.
Broader sustainability efforts
Apple aims to be carbon neutral across its supply chain by 2030. This requires investments in renewable energy and emissions reduction. Apple promotes renewable energy adoption through its Clean Energy Program, helping suppliers transition to renewable energy sources.
Key components of net zero strategy
To achieve their net zero target by 2030, Apple will focus on:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions: Invest in renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency, and reduce waste.
- Carbon offsetting: Invest in projects that reduce or remove carbon emissions, such as reforestation or renewable energy projects.
- Collaboration: Work with other companies, governments, and stakeholders to share best practices, collaborate on research and development, and advocate for policy changes.
- Innovation: Invest in new technologies and processes to reduce their carbon footprint, develop new products or services, or make existing products and services more sustainable.
- Reporting and transparency: Track and report progress towards net zero targets and maintain transparency about emissions and sustainability practices.
Reducing scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions
Apple aims to become carbon neutral across its entire business, supply chain, and product life cycle by 2030. The company has developed a comprehensive plan to reduce its Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
Scope 1 emissions
- Transition to 100% renewable energy sources for facilities
- Already achieved for corporate offices and data centers
Scope 2 emissions
- Work with suppliers to transition to renewable energy sources
- Invest in renewable energy projects, like solar and wind farms
Scope 3 emissions
- Work with suppliers to improve energy efficiency of products
- Explore new transportation methods like electric vehicles and shipping by rail
Renewable energy initiatives
- Building and using renewable energy facilities
- Investing in renewable energy projects
- Purchasing renewable energy certificates (RECs)
- Improving energy efficiency
Engaging with the supply chain
- Supplier Clean Energy Program to help suppliers transition to renewable energy sources
- Encouraging energy-efficient practices
- Reducing waste and increasing recycling
- Promoting sustainable materials and responsible sourcing
Carbon offsets and carbon removal
- Invest in carbon offset projects like forest conservation and renewable energy projects
- Invest in carbon removal technologies like direct air capture and reforestation
Monitoring and reporting progress
- Internal data tracking systems
- Third-party audits to verify progress
- Annual Environmental Progress Report for public access
Industry initiatives and collaborations
- RE100, Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance (REBA), The Climate Group’s EV100, Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP)
Addressing climate risk and building resilience
- Reducing carbon footprint through renewable energy
- Building resilience in the supply chain through the Supplier Clean Energy Program
- Designing sustainable products with recycled or renewable materials
Government policies and regulations
- Influenced by policies like the Paris Agreement and the Clean Air Act
- Complying with various state and local regulations
Milestones achieved or planned
- 100% renewable energy for operations in 43 countries
- Commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030
- Recycling robot called Daisy to disassemble and recycle iPhones
- Investment in renewable energy projects worldwide
- Product design changes to reduce environmental impact
