Technology major Apple announced two new green initiatives to avoid over 20 million metric tons of greenhouse gas pollution in China between now and 2020.
Apple also announced the completion of 40 megawatts of solar projects in the Sichuan Province, China. These solar installations produce more than the total amount of electricity used by Apple’s offices and retail stores in China, making Apple’s operations carbon neutral in China. Apple operates 19 corporate offices and 24 retail stores in Greater China, directly employing 10,000 people.
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, said: “The transition to a new green economy requires innovation, ambition and purpose. We believe passionately in leaving the world better than we found it and hope that many other suppliers, partners and other companies join us in this important effort.”
Apple plans to build more than 200 megawatts of solar projects in the northern, eastern and southern grid regions of China.
Apple will partner with its suppliers in China to install more than 2 gigawatts of new clean energy in the coming years.
The devices major will also share best practices in procuring clean energy and building renewable energy projects, and provide assistance to some suppliers in areas like energy efficiency audits, regulatory guidance and building strong partnerships to bring new clean energy projects to China.
As part of Apple’s program, Foxconn will construct 400 megawatts of solar, starting in the Henan Province, by 2018. Foxconn has committed to generate as much clean energy as its Zhengzhou factory consumes in final production of iPhone.
Terry Gou, founder and CEO of Foxconn Technology Group, said: “Sustainability is a core pillar in Foxconn’s strategy and we are committed to investing in green manufacturing.”
Apple is powering 100 percent of its operations in China and the US, and more than 87 percent of its worldwide operations, with renewable energy.
Baburajan K
editor@telecomlead.com
