Apple has reported that 30% of the materials used in its products shipped in 2025 came from recycled sources.
The update was shared in Apple’s latest Environmental Progress Report, which outlines ongoing work to reduce emissions and improve resource efficiency across its global operations.
The company confirmed that all batteries designed by Apple now use 100% recycled cobalt, while all magnets contain 100% recycled rare earth elements. Printed circuit boards designed by Apple also use recycled gold and tin.
Apple said these changes are part of a broader push to reduce reliance on newly mined materials while maintaining supply chain standards.
Apple also completed its goal of removing plastic from packaging. All product packaging is now fibre-based and designed for easier recycling.
Over the past five years, the company avoided more than 15,000 metric tons of plastic. This is equivalent to around 500 million plastic water bottles.
Progress Toward Carbon Neutral Target
Apple is working toward becoming carbon neutral across its entire footprint by 2030.
According to the report, the company’s greenhouse gas emissions remain more than 60% lower than 2015 levels. This reduction has been maintained despite continued growth in business operations.
Apple’s suppliers are increasing their use of renewable energy under the Supplier Clean Energy Program.
In 2025, suppliers used more than 20 gigawatts of renewable energy, generating over 38 million megawatt-hours of electricity. Apple also added 1.8 gigawatts of renewable energy to power its own offices and data centres.
Water Conservation Efforts
Apple and its suppliers saved 17 billion gallons of fresh water in 2025. The company is also working to replenish all water used in its operations by 2030.
More than half of the water used across Apple’s corporate facilities was replenished through its projects last year.
Apple is developing new recycling systems to improve material recovery from used devices.
The company introduced a recycling line called Cora, which uses advanced shredding and sensor technology to recover materials at higher rates. It also developed an AI-powered system to help sort electronic waste more efficiently.
Earlier this year, Apple introduced MacBook Neo, its lowest-carbon laptop to date.
The device uses 60% recycled content and incorporates a production process that reduces raw material use and improves water efficiency.
Waste Reduction Across Operations
Apple reported a waste diversion rate of 75% across its global facilities.
Some locations have already achieved zero waste to landfill certification, while more than 400 supplier facilities are participating in the company’s zero waste programme.
The company plans to continue expanding these efforts as it works toward its 2030 carbon neutrality target.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri
.jpg)
