Apple’s New iPhone Packaging: A Sustainable Shift?

Apple is replacing plastic with wood fiber in iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max packaging as part of its environmental commitment.

As one of the world’s most valuable companies, Apple has committed to eliminating plastic from its packaging by 2025. However, at its recent Wonderlust event in September, Apple announced it would achieve this goal ahead of schedule. The packaging for the new iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max reflects this commitment. It is 100% fiber-based, with minimal plastic in the inks, coatings, and adhesives. Additionally, Apple redesigned the phone boxes to reduce their volume. This change minimizes material usage and allows more phones to be transported per trip, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. These shifts support Apple’s ongoing efforts to minimize its environmental impact.

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Wood Fiber Replaces Plastic on the New iPhone’s Packaging

Apple chose to use wood fiber that is either recycled or sourced from responsibly managed forests. By managing these forests directly, Apple ensures a reliable supply of virgin wood fiber when recycled material falls short. This approach not only fulfills Apple’s fiber needs but also promotes oxygen production through reforestation. This process helps offset the company’s environmental impact. With every new tree planted, Apple actively supports carbon reduction and biodiversity.

Redesigning Packaging for Greater Efficiency

Apple also redesigned the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max packaging to maximize compactness and efficiency. Engineers reduced the box volume by 6%, allowing more boxes to fit on each pallet. This adjustment enables Apple to ship more phones in fewer trips. It helps achieve an estimated 3% reduction in transportation-related carbon emissions.

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Setting New Standards for Packaging

Through these packaging changes, Apple significantly lowers GHG emissions associated with the new iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max. These advances in eco-friendly packaging reflect Apple’s commitment to pioneering sustainable packaging design and setting new industry standards for environmental responsibility.