Apple tops list of retailers for removal of hazardous chemicals from stores

Apple's environmental credentials have been praised, as it has scored the highest among retailers in the U.S. and Canada for removing hazardous chemicals and plastics.

The 2024 Retailer Report Card from Toxic-Free Future has taken a look into the environmental practices of retailers in North America. Specifically, it looks into how companies are working to protect customers from toxic chemicals and reducing plastic.

In the 2024 results, Apple tops the list with a score of 84%, making it the only company to score an "A" grade. Sephora is second with 69%, with Walmart, Sam's Club, and Target following with 65%.

Apple was praised in the report for its corporate commitment to use safer chemicals, including collaborating with organizations in the field. Its transparency with the Full Material Disclosure program with manufacturers to collect data on material compositions was also welcomed as a good initiative.

The company has also continued to restrict harmful chemicals, including the goal of removing plastics from packaging by 2025. Its definition of a safer alternative is also consistent with Washington state's version, which has been introduced into product design and development, too.

There's also the seed funding for the Safer Chemistry Investment Fund, and sponsorship of chemical hazard assessment for ChemForward solvent and flame retardant databases, which the report highlights.

"Apple, Sephora, Target, and Walmart are setting a strong standard, scoring highest overall," said report co-author Mike Schade. "With the holiday shopping season upon us, it's time for more retailers to follow their lead and mind the store."

This is not the first time Apple's chemical policies have been praised. The U.S. Environment Protection Agency identified Apple as a winner of the 2024 Safer Choice Partner of the Year Award" for screening and assessing its chemical usage within its supply chain.