Apple has announced plans to use only recycled cobalt in its batteries by 2025 as part of its commitment to making all of its products carbon-neutral by the end of the decade. The tech giant will also use recycled rare earth elements in the magnets of Apple devices and recycled tin soldering and gold plating in printed circuit boards designed in-house.
The move comes as a response to concerns over the mining of cobalt, which has been linked to child labor and human rights abuses. Most of the cobalt used in consumer electronics batteries is sourced as a byproduct of copper or nickel mining, but high-quality deposits in southern Congo are rich in cobalt and often exploited by child laborers.
In 2022, a quarter of all cobalt used in Apple products came from recycled material, up from 13% the previous year. Apple is committed to achieving carbon neutrality throughout its supply chain and product lifecycle by 2030.
The company has also increased its financial commitment to a fund established two years ago to invest in projects to remove carbon from the atmosphere by 2%. Apple is not alone in its efforts to move towards more sustainable and ethical practices. Many other technology companies have set similar goals and have made strides toward using more recycled materials in their products.
As of now, recycled materials account for over two-thirds of Apple’s aluminum, almost three-quarters of its rare earth, and more than 95% of its tungsten in its products. While it may take time for the company to fully achieve its goals, this commitment to sustainability is a positive step towards reducing the environmental impact of the tech industry.
In conclusion, Apple’s announcement to use only recycled cobalt in its batteries by 2025 is a significant move towards a more sustainable and ethical supply chain. It sets an example for other tech companies to follow in the effort to reduce the environmental impact of their products and address human rights concerns in the mining of essential materials.
