01 · THE MATERIAL WORLD WITHIN
Manufacturer-reportedAluminium
Apple reports 85% recycled aluminium in the enclosure and 100% in the thermal substructure. These are component-specific claims.
The complete material journey
Open a stage for its process, evidence and map.
01Inputs & origins
Primary aluminium starts with bauxite and alumina; recovered aluminium starts with scrap. A component’s recycled-content claim does not identify its original mine.
Published material or product-family context; individual-item provenance unverifiedExplore this stage on Earth3 sources behind this section
02Material production
Primary production refines bauxite into alumina, then uses electrolysis to make metal. Recovered aluminium offers another branch. Product forming and finishing depend on the item.
Published material or product-family context; individual-item provenance unverifiedExplore this stage on Earth3 sources behind this section
03Forming & assembly
Primary production refines bauxite into alumina, then uses electrolysis to make metal. Recovered aluminium offers another branch. Product forming and finishing depend on the item.
Published material or product-family context; individual-item provenance unverifiedExplore this stage on Earth3 sources behind this section
04Distribution
Material inputs, component factories, assembly, distribution and sale can involve separate journeys. Country markings and receipts narrow the investigation; shipment records establish actual movements.
Investigation guidance; item route unverifiedExplore this stage on Earth05Use & care
Keep software current, protect the device and use model-specific repair guidance. Battery service and repair can extend its useful life.
Care guidance; confirm the model-specific instructionsExplore this stage on Earth1 source behind this section
06Collection & recovery
Beverage cans often have a collection or deposit route. Other aluminium objects may require a scrap-metal service.
Published material or product-family context; individual-item provenance unverifiedExplore this stage on Earth5 sources behind this section
Aluminum Association · primary productionThe Aluminum AssociationEPA · common recyclablesUS Environmental Protection AgencyEPA · electronics donation and recyclingUS Environmental Protection AgencyEPA · used household batteriesUS Environmental Protection AgencyApple · iPhone 16 / 16 Plus environmental report, September 2024Apple07Remaining waste
After sorting or treatment, residues still need an accepted handling route. The local authority or receiving operator must establish the treatment and destination for this exact item.
Investigation guidance; item route unverifiedExplore this stage on Earth1 source behind this section
Still to establish: Do not assign a bauxite mine, refinery or smelter without supplier records. Recovered metal adds a separate upstream branch.
3 sources behind this section
Compare these material branches with the model’s specification or the markings on your object.