Apple today released its 2014 Environmental Responsibility Report. The 29-page report looks at Apple's goals of meeting a net zero energy usage, removing toxins from both its manufacturing systems and its products, and recycling and conserving material, as well as reducing its carbon footprint during 2013.

Overall, Apple's environmental goals are impressive, and while there is still work to be done to meet its internal goals, its methods and achievements so far could very well be described as a model for businesses that see climate change as an issue to be confronted rather than ignored or ridiculed.

"We strive to create products that are the best they can be in every way. Our passion for innovation is also reflected in how we think about environmental responsibility. Our goal is to make not just the best products in the world, but the best products for the world.

Apple’s 2014 Environmental Responsibility Report, covering fiscal year 2013, highlights the progress we’ve made toward that goal. We have set three priorities for our work where we believe Apple can make the most impact going forward:

• Reduce our impact on climate change by using renewable energy sources and driving energy efficiency in our products.

• Pioneer the use of greener materials in our products and processes.

• Conserve precious resources so we all can thrive."

The most visible of Apple's recent efforts include the new Campus 2 corporate facility now being built in Cupertino, and the development of data centers that are 100% powered by renewable energy. Apple makes use of solar, geothermal, wind, biogas fuel cells, and micro hydropower sources to run all of its data centers, and has already met the net zero energy usage goal for its operational data centers.

The same push for net zero energy use can be seen in the building of the new Campus 2 site. Designed to be 100% powered by renewable sources, it will include one of the largest solar installations on corporate buildings, landscaping that uses native plantings for less water consumption, the planting of 7,000+ native trees on the campus, and the use of passive heating and cooling, all of which will help contribute to a smaller carbon footprint and lower energy usage after the building phase is complete.

Apple is also moving to use only renewable energy to power its retail stores; so far 145 U.S. stores are using 100% renewable energy, as are all Apple stores in Australia.

The 2014 Environmental Responsibility Report is available as a PDF download from the Apple web site, and it makes fascinating reading.

(07/10/2014)