Apple's Environmental Initiatives: iPhone Recycling & Trade-In Guide 2026

Learn how Apple is reducing environmental impact and how you can contribute:

Apple's 2030 Carbon Neutral Goal:

- All products carbon neutral by 2030

- Using 100% recycled materials in key components

- Renewable energy in all facilities worldwide

iPhone Recycling Program:

1. Trade-In Value

- iPhone 15 Pro Max: Up to $720 trade-in credit

- iPhone 14 Pro: Up to $550 trade-in credit

- iPhone 13: Up to $400 trade-in credit

- Credit varies based on condition and storage

2. Free Recycling

- Apple accepts any old iPhone, regardless of condition

- No trade-in value for damaged devices, but recycled responsibly

- In-store or mail-in options available

3. Environmental Impact

- Recycled tungsten in Taptic Engine

- 100% recycled aluminum in enclosures

- Recycled rare earth elements in all magnets

How to Prepare Your iPhone for Trade-In:

1. Back up your data (iCloud or computer)

2. Sign out of iCloud and Apple ID

3. Turn off Find My iPhone

4. Erase all content and settings

5. Remove SIM card (optional)

6. Include charging cable if possible

Alternative Recycling Options:

- Best Buy: Accepts electronics for free recycling

- Call2Recycle: Battery-specific recycling

- Gazelle: Competitive trade-in prices

- EcoATM: Instant payment for devices

Did You Know?

Apple's disassembly robot "Daisy" can take apart 200 iPhones per hour, recovering valuable materials for reuse in new products.

Daisy the robot at Apple's Austin Material Recovery Lab (responsible for efficiently disassembling iPhones and sorting components)

Sorted iPhone components after disassembly by Daisy