Apple Used The Most Recycled Materials It Ever Had For Products In 2021

Last year was a big step up for Apple in terms of changing its manufacturing practices for the betterment of the environment. 

According to a report, the company introduced certified recycled gold for the first time in 2021, and more than doubled its use of recycled tungsten, rare earth elements, and cobalt. 

In total, nearly 20% of all the material used to create its products were recycled, the highest-ever record achieved by the tech brand. 

Devices made in 2021 were made up of components like 45% certified recycled rare earth materials, 30% recycled tin, 13% recycled cobalt, and even recycled gold, which was used in the plating of the main logic broad and wire in the cameras of the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro. 

To continue its roll towards sustainability, Apple is introducing its newest recycling innovation, a machine that makes recovering materials easier compared to how electronics are typically recycled.

Named the ‘Taz’, the shredder-like contraption makes use of new technology to separate magnets found in devices from audio modules, and can recover more rare earth elements than the usual process.

Plus, the brand is offering ‘Daisy’, its patented iPhone disassembly robot, for license to other companies and researchers free of charge, so more of its 23 iPhone models can be recycled. 

As we celebrate Earth Day this week, Apple is spearheading new ways for users to show their appreciation for Mother Earth, such as by supporting the World Wildlife Fund when using Apple Pay. 

It will also be releasing new content and activities across its platforms to educate users on climate change, and shed light on how communities around the globe are working together to protect the planet. 

“As people around the world join in celebrating Earth Day, we are making real progress in our work to address the climate crisis and to one day make our products without taking anything from the Earth,” said Lisa Jackson, Apple’s Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives.

“Our rapid pace of innovation is already helping our teams use today’s products to build tomorrow’s, and as our global supply chain transitions to clean power, we are charting a path for other companies to follow,” she added. 

[via Engadget and Apple, cover image via VILTVART / Shutterstock.com]