TAIPEI – This afternoon Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) committed to achieve 100 percent renewable energy across its own operations by 2040.

Foxconn is a leading electronics manufacturer for brands such as Apple and Microsoft and a major consumer of electricity. In 2022, Foxconn’s emissions exceeded the annual emissions of Iceland.


Response from Greenpeace East Asia Climate and Energy project manager Yung-Jen Chen:

“Unfortunately, a 2040 target does not reflect the urgency of the climate crisis. It is also unlikely to help Foxconn become more competitive on the global stage.

In recent years, some of Foxconn’s biggest clients have already reached 100 percent renewable energy across their operations, including Apple and Google.[1][2] By selecting a target year so far in the future, Foxconn has granted itself an excuse for inaction. This announcement also leaves the door wide open for rivals such as Luxshare Precision to establish themselves as sustainability frontrunners.

It is feasible for Foxconn to achieve 100% renewable energy worldwide by 2030. In 2022, almost 90 percent of Foxconn’s electricity consumption occurred in mainland China, where ample opportunities exist to purchase renewable energy through high-impact sourcing methods. Foxconn’s weak pledge reflects a lack of prioritization, not of feasibility. [3]

Moreover, expansion of manufacturing operations outside of mainland China should not be an excuse for Foxconn to delay action. In recent years, Foxconn has expanded its facilities in India, Mexico and Vietnam, among other locations. [4] As Foxconn diversifies its manufacturing base, it must include a comprehensive renewable energy strategy into its relocation plans from the outset and advocate for new renewable energy procurement opportunities. A proactive approach is necessary to limit carbon emissions and toxic air pollution and to strengthen renewable energy infrastructure. 

Ultimately, the 2040 target is more a symbolic gesture than a reflection of the climate ambition that we need. In the face of intensifying heat waves, wildfires and flooding, we call on Foxconn and its peers to commit to 100 percent renewable energy worldwide by 2030.”

Notes

[1] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2018/04/apple-now-globally-powered-by-100-percent-renewable-energy/

[2] https://sustainability.google/operating-sustainably/stories/announcement-100/

[3] https://thediplomat.com/2024/01/apple-must-clean-up-its-polluting-supply-chain-starting-with-foxconn/

[4] https://thediplomat.com/2024/04/as-electronics-suppliers-shift-away-from-china-they-cant-lose-sight-of-climate-goals/

Contact

Erin Newport, International Communications Officer, Greenpeace East Asia, Taipei, +886 958 026 791, [email protected]