Apple reduces new iPhone 16’s carbon footprint by 30%
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Apple has unveiled its Product Environmental Report for the new iPhone 16 lineup, showcasing significant progress towards its climate and sustainability goals. The report highlights a 30% reduction in the lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the iPhone 16 Pro 128 GB and iPhone 16 Pro Max 256 GB models, marking a major step in Apple’s journey to becoming carbon neutral across its entire business by 2030.
The emissions reductions, measured against a “business as usual” scenario, result from various sustainable practices implemented across Apple’s supply chain. Chief among these is the use of low-carbon electricity, which the company credits as the greatest contributor to the reduced GHG footprint. For example, the iPhone 16 Pro Max's carbon footprint now stands at 74 kg, down from a baseline of 105 kg, with low-carbon solutions accounting for over 20% of the emissions savings.
Apple’s commitment to clean energy extends throughout its supply chain. Since urging its suppliers in 2022 to decarbonize their Scope 1 and 2 emissions, the tech giant has reported significant progress, with 95% of its manufacturing spend now dedicated to suppliers who have committed to using 100% renewable energy for Apple production by 2030. The company’s use of clean energy in the supply chain has surged by 20% in the past year, reaching 16.5 GW of renewable energy capacity.
In addition to its clean energy efforts, Apple has also increased the use of sustainable materials, with over 25% of the new iPhone made from recycled content, reducing emissions by approximately 7%. This includes 100% recycled cobalt and more than 95% recycled lithium in the iPhone 16’s battery, a key milestone as Apple works towards its goal of using 100% recycled cobalt in all batteries by 2025.
Other notable environmental features of the iPhone 16 include the use of 100% fiber-based packaging, furthering Apple’s ambition to eliminate plastics from its packaging by 2025. The new phones also boast improved energy efficiency, enhanced durability, and options for customers to trade in or recycle their devices, all aimed at reducing the environmental impact of Apple products over their lifetime.
Apple’s comprehensive approach to sustainability—spanning clean energy adoption, increased use of recycled materials, and product life cycle improvements—demonstrates the company’s commitment to leading the industry toward a more sustainable future. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of environmental responsibility, it remains on track to meet its ambitious 2030 carbon neutrality goals.
