Apple unveiled its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and other new products at its fall launch event on Sept. 9. (Photo: Apple)
Apple unveiled its new iPhone 18 Pro lineup, Apple Watch models and its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, at its fall launch event on Sept. 9. This year, the company took a more subdued approach to sustainability messaging, putting the carbon footprint of its products back in focus as a key measure of progress toward its 2030 emissions reduction target.
Electricity used in manufacturing and product charging accounts for a significant share of Apple’s overall carbon footprint. Sherry Hu (胡湘渝), carbon market analyst at RECCESSARY, said the implications for Taiwanese suppliers go beyond the need to increase their use of renewable electricity. Their ability to manufacture with lower emissions will increasingly become an important factor in securing orders and maintaining their position in Apple’s supply chain.
Unlock the full article to explore three key takeaways:
- iPhone Duo's carbon footprint is 93 kg CO₂e, about 69% higher than the iPhone 17 (256GB).
- Manufacturing accounts for roughly 87% of the gap, while renewables supply only 60% of factory electricity.
- Apple keeps its 75% emissions-cut target for 2030, raising renewable electricity pressure on Taiwan suppliers.
