At 'Glowtime', the greenest Apple yet

Apple’s latest product announcements are a testament to its deepening commitment to environmental sustainability. With the unveiling of the Apple Watch Series 10, iPhone 16 lineup, and AirPods 4, Apple is advancing its mission to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining its status as a leader in innovation.

Each product reflects Apple's broader environmental goals and its ongoing journey towards carbon neutrality by 2030.

Apple Watch: A carbon-neutral first

The Series 10 marks a significant milestone as Apple’s first carbon-neutral product. This achievement is a reflection of a comprehensive approach to sustainability. The Series 10 is crafted using 100% recycled aluminium and 95% recycled titanium, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with raw material extraction.

Apple has also reduced emissions across the watch's production, electricity use, and transportation, offsetting any remaining emissions with high-quality carbon credits from nature-based projects.

By integrating recycled materials and focusing on energy efficiency, the company is setting a new standard for consumer electronics, demonstrating that high performance and eco-consciousness can coexist.

iPhone 16: Recycled and Renewable

The iPhone 16 lineup further solidifies Apple’s dedication to environmental responsibility by incorporating over 30% recycled content in its construction. This includes 85% recycled aluminium in the enclosure and 80% recycled steel in multiple components.

Notably, the batteries feature 100% recycled cobalt and over 95% recycled lithium — an industry first for Apple. The iPhone 16 models introduce the new A18 chip, offering a significant performance boost with advanced camera capabilities, improved battery life, and enhanced durability with the toughest Ceramic Shield glass yet. The Pro models also include a new 48MP camera system that supports 4K video recording and spatial audio, bringing pro-level photography and videography to everyday users.

The brand's environmental efforts extend beyond product materials. The company continues to prioritise renewable energy across its global supply chain, working towards its goal of being fully carbon neutral by 2030. Apple’s Supplier Clean Energy Program has played a critical role, with over 320 suppliers now committed to clean energy, resulting in 16.5 gigawatts of renewable energy being used in manufacturing processes. This shift is crucial, as electricity use in manufacturing and device charging remains one of the largest contributors to Apple’s carbon footprint​.

AirPods 4: Sustainable audio innovations

Apple’s environmental focus also touches its smaller products, like the AirPods 4. Designed with 100% recycled rare earth elements and 100% recycled gold in key components, AirPods 4 represent Apple’s effort to integrate sustainability into every aspect of its product range.

The AirPods 4 feature an all-new design that enhances comfort and fit, improved audio quality with the H2 chip, and active noise cancellation in an open-ear design. These enhancements not only provide users with a superior listening experience but also reflect the company's commitment to sustainability, as the redesigned packaging eliminates plastics entirely, using fibre-based alternatives that reduce shipping emissions.

A broader environmental vision

Apple’s environmental initiatives extend well beyond individual products. Since 2015, Apple has cut its greenhouse gas emissions by over 55%, driven by advancements in clean energy, recycling, and supply chain efficiency.

Apple’s Supplier Clean Energy Program, which has been crucial in this progress, saved over two billion kilowatt-hours of electricity last year. The company also aims to match the electricity used by customers to charge their devices with investments in solar and wind energy projects worldwide, demonstrating its commitment to responsible energy use.

Apple’s ongoing efforts to conserve water are another cornerstone of its environmental strategy. Through its Supplier Clean Water Program, Apple has saved over 76 billion gallons of fresh water since 2013, highlighting its commitment to addressing the environmental impact across the entire supply chain​.

Apple’s latest product announcements are a powerful reflection of its commitment to sustainability. By integrating recycled materials, renewable energy, and innovative design, Apple is advancing technology while redefining what it means to be an environmentally responsible company. As

Apple moves closer to its 2030 carbon neutrality goal, it continues to set an industry standard, proving that innovation and sustainability are inextricably linked. With each new product, Apple not only showcases its technological prowess but also its dedication to creating a more sustainable future.