Moving towards grid independence

Since forming in 1977, Apple has been a pioneer of design simplicity with countless notable technology advances. Hence, it’s not surprising that the company is leading the charge towards manufacturing processes that are 100% powered by one of the most important technological advances ever – renewable energy.

Apple’s final assembly sites are already zero-waste compliant, and now a major supplier, Lens Technology, has agreed to run Apple operations on renewable energy alone. This will enable Apple’s manufacturers to reduce production waste while lowering their carbon footprint.

 93% environmentally friendly

Apple already has a good history of environmentally friendly practices. Their VP, Lisa Jackson announced earlier this year that 93% of Apple’s facilities are powered by renewable energy. And the company’s trajectory of reducing negative impacts on the environment continues with further changes to its manufacturing and product design process.

First Apple supplier commits to renewables

As mentioned, Lens Technology, a manufacturer of Apples’s touch panels among other things, has committed to power all its production for Apple products with 100% renewable energy by the end of 2018.

This company is the first of Apple’s suppliers to make such a move but other suppliers are likely to scramble to get on board. This is because Apple are changing up their business relations with various manufacturers and suppliers. The mega company will no doubt begin demanding more from suppliers in an effort to find the most clean and green approaches to making their products.

Recycle and reuse and reduce

Alongside reducing their CO2 output, Apple is aiming to clean up the environmental landscape in China. China has suffered from noticeable amounts of pollution due to an excess of large manufacturers who are attracted by cheap labour and low manufacturing costs.

Apple have now teamed up with suppliers in China and has ensured that all 14 of its assembly sites are now compliant with UL’s Zero Waste to Landfill validation. This means that all waste is recycled, reused, composted or if possible, converted into energy.

“We want to show the world that you can manufacture responsibly and we’re working alongside our suppliers to help them lower their environmental impact in China,” said Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives.

Sustainable production is the way forward

Apple’s move towards clean and sustainable methods of production is an environmental game changer. Further to this, the company has made a wise financial decision as the long term cost of renewable energy is cheaper than using traditional power sources. SEC predicts that Apple’s drive for clean and green manufacturing will encourage other companies to follow suit.

If the process of becoming independent from the grid and traditional power sources is of interest, don’t hesitate to get in touch. SEC provides companies like Apple and Lens Technology with complete energy storage systems to power their everyday operations.