Apple continues to stand out on the environmental front, earning the highest score in the 2024 North American Retailer Rankings for its commitment to eliminating hazardous chemicals. A new recognition which highlights the constant efforts of the Apple brand in terms of sustainable development.
Confirmed environmental leadership
According to Toxic-Free Future’s 2024 report, Apple dominates the rankings with an impressive score of 84%, being the only company to earn an “A” grade. Far ahead of Sephora (69%) and Walmart (65%), the Cupertino firm particularly stands out for its transparency policy and its “Full Material Disclosure” program which requires manufacturers to declare the detailed composition of their materials.
Mike Schade, co-author of the report, emphasizes that “Apple sets a high standard” that other retailers should follow. This recognition is in addition to the “Safer Choice Partner of the Year 2024” award given by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Concrete commitments for 2025
Apple has made strong commitments, including the total elimination of plastics from its packaging by 2025. The company has also set itself the goal of removing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) by the same deadline.
To support this transition, Apple created the “Safer Chemistry Investment Fund” in 2024, with a target of $15 million over five years. This fund aims to accelerate the industry’s transition to safer chemistry. The company is also collaborating with ChemFORWARD to identify safer alternatives to toxic solvents and flame retardants. By 2023, Apple has successfully collected detailed chemical information on 93% of the mass of every iPhone, iPad and Mac produced, demonstrating its commitment to full transparency in its supply chain.
If Apple obviously uses a lot of greenwashing, like all companies, it is clear that the marketing posture is followed by the facts. The company may not be doing enough, but it’s still more than its competitors.
