ReStyle, ReCreate, and ReThink with Project Likha
The tech industry can potentially play a large role in the ongoing environmental movement. From blockchains to AI systems, tech poses various solutions to respond to the urgent call for sustainability.
Apple, one of the world’s leading tech companies, is taking it upon themselves to contribute to the cause. Boldly claimed in the company’s environment manifesto, Apple tasks themselves with responsibility, voicing out a potent statement: “Earth can’t wait. Neither will we.” Currently, they are promising to be 100% carbon neutral by the year 2030.
With that goal in mind, we now ask: with their stature and influence, can they do more? And can they influence other tech companies to follow suit?
HOW CAN WE IMPROVE?
Right to Repair
Apple makes it difficult for repair shops to access vital tools, parts, and information. Instead, users need to go directly through Apple for repairs, oftentimes needing to replace their device or pay for a new warranty.
Planned Obsolescence
Although Apple has yet to be ruled guilty, the tech giant received multiple lawsuits for planned obsolescence–producing products that quickly become obsolete and require replacement. Claims are that Apple intentionally slows down old iPhone models and cuts battery life prior to a new release.
Low-quality Accessories
Some users claim that Apple produces flimsy charging cables and earphones. This way, consumers are required to purchase new accessories regularly.
Apple has been constantly working towards a green goal. With the commitment in becoming 100% carbon neutral by 2030 which pushed the company to review their business model, manufacturing supply chain, and product life cycle. Here are some steps that Apple has in working towards their goal: (1) Using smaller and lighter packaging, (2) Recycling aluminum and older iPhones, (3) Recycling older iPhones, and (4) Democratizing access to clean energy.
Power Mac Center launched Project Likha to take little but necessary steps towards making a better tomorrow. To uplift local heritage and create conversations, Project Likha organized three initiatives: ReStyle, ReCreate, and ReThink.
REStyle encouraged individuals to make a difference while showcasing their versatility through a TikTok challenge. Participants were challenged to show different ways they can wear their clothes for a chance to win an iPad Air. RECreate is an upcycling challenge where participants repurposed home items and shared with us their inspiration for the transformation. Winner gets the chance to bring home an iPad Pro. REThink is a webinar series to bring awareness to sustainability’s presence in fashion, business, and the arts. Guest speakers shared their expertise and advocacies in their respective fields.
First in the webinar series is RETHink Your Resources which was held last September 25. Anna Rubio, a multidisciplinary artist, spoke about how art is made with nature’s beauty and upcycled materials to inspire us to not only appreciate nature but to better care for the planet. Together with Anina is our very own Carlo Delantar, a Circular Economy Pioneer and award-winning social entrepreneur. He tells his story of working and bringing people together to take on environmental challenges for the Philippines.
REThink Your Choices, the second leg of the series, had two speakers that spoke about the decisions they have made to make their lifestyle more sustainable. Antoinette Taus, award-winning actress, singer, host, environmental advocate, and Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme spoke about her different involvements as she chose actions that were FOR the planet. Kimi Juan-Caja, a travel photographer, blogger, and advocate for low-waste living and slow fashion, shared how through her art and creative stories, she has inspired the youth to be more conscious with their practices and daily routines.
The last leg of the series, REThink Your Business will be on October 25. This will cover how sustainability can definitely be incorporated in business operations.
Stay tuned to know who the guest speakers will be for the last series, sharing their expertise and advocacies as business owners. Reserve a slot for REThink Your Business while you can!