Apple announces new hardware recycling initiative

By Paul Ploumis (ScrapMonster Author)

March 22, 2016 04:49:53 AM

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Apple Inc., has announced the launch of a new research and development program aimed at boosting its recycling efforts. The program named ‘Apple Renew’ makes recycling of iPhone, iPad, Mac or even a PC easier. Customers could take the devices to any nearby Apple retail store or else get a pre-paid mailing label from Apple’s website.

Apple Inc will deconstruct the received devices with the help of a disassembly robot called Liam, which has been under development for nearly three years. The robot will be capable of detecting and removing parts from the hardware devices. The ‘Liam’ robot could perform a variety of recovery operations such as cobalt and lithium from iPhone’s battery, gold and copper from camera and silver and platinum from logic circuit board. The recovered materials will be reintroduced into Apple’s supply.

Liam robot can take apart one iPhone 6 every eleven seconds. Working at that rate, it can handle a few million phones per year. As part of the system, Apple has introduced 29 robotic modules on the site near its California headquarters. The robot will initially handle iPhone 6 phones sold in the US. A second Liam is being installed in Europe. In addition, the company will tie-up with third party recycling firms to handle bulk e-waste. Meanwhile, Apple also stated that R&D activities are being carried out to explore the possibilities of reusing more materials in future products.

A couple of years back, Apple had aimed at using 100% renewable energy sources for all their operations. The company announced that it is currently using 93% renewable energy sources. Also, Apple is currently using 100% renewable energy sources in as many as 23 countries including the US. In addition, the company aims to use paper-based products for 100% of its packaging.