One look at the news and you’ll probably think humanity needs to better look after our planet. Emissions are rising. Consumer activity is not sustainable.
Large corporations need to do the heavy lifting, with governments legislating accordingly. And Apple is among a range of industry giants with plans to be carbon-neutral (in Apple’s case, by 2030).
However, if you’re keen to do your bit and yet still keep using the technology you love, there are options. Read on for our top tips, apps and accessories for going green.
Get started
Reduce consumption: Only buy what you really need, and explore whether one device can do more. Consider refurbs or second-hand devices. And prioritize longevity, upgrading your iPhone less often and buying accessories that will last and, ideally, work with future devices.
Do your research: If you’re serious about the impact of your purchases on the planet, prioritize low-carbon footprint goods. Although be mindful of companies meeting targets by merely offsetting emissions, rather than by way of proactive change.
Embrace dongles: Dongles are annoying, but they’re also less resource-hungry than buying new hardware if something you own still works well. Instead of ‘upgrading’ from Lightning to USB-C kit, where possible, just buy a cheap adapter.
Reduce waste: Beyond your technology, use your iPhone to minimize and deal with waste smartly in other ways. Use apps to reduce food waste, monitor power consumption, and figure out how to best recycle the trash you generate.
Minimize streaming: Streaming is convenient but has hidden costs, requiring data centers to pipe media your way. If you listen to music regularly, it may well be more eco-friendly to buy it on CD. Alternatively, download favorites for local playback.
Protect your purchases: You might like the look of your shiny new iPhone, but it won’t look as great if it hits the floor from a height. And then you’ll need a decidedly non-green yet avoidable repair or replacement. So use a case.
Download these apps
Too Good To Go (free): Combat food waste and get a bargain by using this app, which scours local outlets for unsold products that lack shelf life. Which means tasty boxes of treats from restaurants and bakeries at unbeatable prices.
OLIO (from free): Avoid wasting anything you already bought by giving away what you don’t need – or acquire what you do from people who live nearby. A great way to declutter, or ensure excess food isn’t wasted.
Facebook (free): Use this social networking giant to see whether there are local ‘freecycle’ groups you can join. Facebook’s sheer scale makes it a good bet if you can’t find/give away things on OLIO.
Google Maps (free): Be greener when you travel with this mapping app. When driving, it will provide fuel-efficient routes. And its extensive data on transit, cycling and walking options beats Apple Maps.
Ecosia (free): Search the web and plant trees! Not at the same time – and not yourself though. Instead, use Ecosia, which uses all its profits to support climate action schemes. Over 200 million trees have been planted to date.
Streaks ($5.99/£5.99): Infuse greener thinking into your routine by using this habit tracker. It’s flexible, meaning you can do everything from tracking days you don’t use your car to how long it’s been since you wasted food.
Connect this hardware
PowerPlant Dual-Port Wall Charger ($30): This two-port US-only charger has green credentials in it being made from recycled materials. But any wired charger will beat wireless when it comes to power consumption. Anker offers great conventional alternatives worldwide.
IKEA Bergenes phone stand ($2.99/£2): This iPhone stand is made of bamboo rather than plastic, which in itself is a good bet if you want something more eco-friendly. And it’s very affordable and extremely robust too.
Belkin UltraGlass Screen Protector ($39.95/£34.95): You constantly interact with your iPhone’s screen, and so even slight damage can be problematic. Give your iPhone a longer life by safeguarding its display with this protector.
Otterbox Symmetry case (about $59/£48): This case is tough for drops and crafted from sustainably harvested nopal cactus. It also has felt inside to protect your iPhone’s back and a metal crown to keep the camera safe.
Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X ($349/€249): You’ll need an adapter to use these open-back headphones with Apple devices, but the sound is superb. Also, components can be replaced, making them an investment. Try the 700 Pro X if you prefer closed-back.