Apple To Phase Out Leather From iPhone Cases And Watches

At Apple's "Wonderlust" event, the company announced plans to phase out leather in their iPhone cases and watch straps in line with sustainability goals. Instead of leather, Apple will use alternatives such as a new textile called FineWoven, made from recycled materials. The company's aim is to be carbon neutral for its supply chain and products by 2030, with the Apple Watch Series 9 being the first carbon neutral product.

Leather production has been criticized for its environmental impact, as it comes from the animal agriculture industry which contributes to methane emissions and land use issues. The tanning process of leather also involves the use of toxic chemicals and a significant amount of water. Other companies like Volvo and BMW have also embraced leather alternatives for ethical and environmental reasons, as the animal-free leather alternative market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.