Apple has long been an advocate of product stewardship and we believe that this concept extends to the proper disposal of electronic equipment at the end of its life.

A holistic view

Apple takes a holistic view of recycling and waste minimisation. We apply this philosophy from the outset, beginning in the design stage by creating compact, ultra-efficient products that use high recycling-value materials wherever possible. We have instituted programs around the world to facilitate the recycling of electronics — diverting over 9.5 million kilograms of equipment from landfills since 1994.

Global product take-back and recycling

In 2006, Apple recycled over 5 million kilograms of e-waste, the equivalent of 9.5% of the weight of all products sold seven years earlier. We expect this percentage to grow to 13% in 2007 and to 20% in 2008. By 2010, we forecast recycling 9 million kilograms of e-waste per year — nearly 30% of the product weight we sold seven years earlier.

Weight Recycled as % of Past Sales

Apple maintains a variety of recycling programs which add to recycling totals every day.  In Australia, the Apple Recycling Program offers a free-collection-with-purchase service to customers who buy directly from Apple, and Apple also participates in free community-based computer recycling events held in several states.

We are committed to compliance with all applicable regulations and laws in this area, worldwide.

Total weight of equipment recycled worldwide. Does not include units that are refurbished or reused.