By 2025, Apple has committed to using 100% recycled cobalt in all of its batteries. The company also plans to switch completely to recycled rare earth elements in magnets, and to transfer all its own production boards to recycled gold and tin.

Last year, Apple used only 25% of recycled cobalt. Although there is a positive trend compared to 13% in 2021, the 2025 target looks quite ambitious. The company already uses 73% recycled rare earth elements and 38% recycled tin.

Ultimately, the company hopes to make all products exclusively from recycled and renewable materials. Its products are expected to become carbon neutral by 2030. A year ago, only 20% of the materials in Apple’s hardware were recycled or refurbished.

Undoubtedly, in part, such statements are related to the formation of the company’s image. However, cobalt savings may be more important than other stated measures. Cobalt is widely used in electronics and electric vehicle batteries. The process of its extraction pollutes the air, soil and water and can lead to problems with the health of the participants in the extraction and the population in general. This risk is compounded by the exploitation of miners in some African countries. Cobalt-free batteries are being developed by various companies, but are still far from widespread use.

Apple also refused to use Russian-made tungsten, tantalum and gold.

Apple intends to become carbon neutral by 2030

Source: Engadget