Apple has announced a significant expansion of its environmental initiatives in Australia and New Zealand, aligning with its commitment to meet the ambitious Apple 2030 goals. The tech giant plans to broaden its Restore Fund investment, focusing on environmental protection projects across multiple locations in New Zealand.
This announcement was made in a press release issued on March 15, 2024, detailing plans for the Restore Fund, which was originally launched in 2021. The fund aims to scale investments in high-quality, nature-based carbon removal projects globally. As part of this initiative, Apple will focus on sites throughout the Central North Island and South Island of New Zealand.
In addition to the New Zealand expansion, Apple provided an update on an ongoing Restore Fund project in Queensland, Australia. This initiative is transforming approximately 1,700 hectares of degraded sugarcane farmland into a thriving macadamia orchard, which will feature over 800,000 trees. Such projects not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute significantly to carbon removal efforts.
Renewable Energy Expansion in Victoria
Apple is also amplifying its renewable energy initiatives in Australia through the development of a new solar project in Lancaster, Victoria. This project is expected to add to Apple’s existing renewable energy portfolio in the region, which aims to generate over 1 million megawatt-hours of clean electricity annually before 2030.
Today’s announcements follow recent investments in European and Chinese environmental projects, indicating that Apple is diversifying its approach to fulfilling its sustainability objectives. While there has been a noted reduction in domestic environmental projects this year, the company remains steadfast in its dedication to international initiatives that align with its long-term sustainability goals.
By expanding its environmental commitments in Australia and New Zealand, Apple is taking meaningful steps toward enhancing its ecological footprint. These initiatives reflect Apple’s broader strategy to ensure that its operations contribute positively to the planet, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
