In Mumbai recently, actor-producer and climate crusader Dia Mirza discussed many such issues with Lisa Jackson, the Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives at Apple. Lisa directly reports to the CEO of Apple and works towards maximising renewable energy and energy efficiency, using greener materials, and inventing new ways to conserve precious resources. Lisa, who is visiting India for the first time with Apple, also leads Apple’s $100 million Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, focused on education, economic opportunity, and criminal justice reforms.
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Dia shares with Lisa a passion for the environment and discussed with her the necessity of conscious capitalism. They talked about how Apple is addressing the climate challenge with renewable energy and carbon neutral operations.
“We’re fortunate to have a leader in Tim Cook who is deeply committed to the planet and that commitment is shared and felt deeply across the whole company”, Lisa shared, explaining that Apple is progressing towards a 2030 goal to be carbon neutral across every product. Which means that more and more of those products will be made at facilities powered by renewable wind and solar energy. “Our products are using less and less energy, we’ve made a bold commitment to use 100% recycled and renewable materials in our products and are working towards it.”
Discussing the grim impact of climate change and pollution on the environment, Dia said, “There are so many days when I feel scared for my child, for our future, for the environment. Hope is something I feel that we all need during these days. I draw hope from action on the ground and from young people innovating. I really believe in the power of personal choice, and action. And I think the more I understand how I can be an agent of change; I may inspire more people to become agents of change.”
The two women in climate went on to discuss how Apple is supporting local communities in India and how it intends to reduce greenhouse gases and prevent exposure to toxic contamination. Lisa said, “We’re working with organizations and communities on the outskirts of Bangalore to help improve the way water resources are shared. And in Raigad district, we’re working with a group to help preserve the mangrove forests that have so much potential to store carbon from the atmosphere. But it’s not just any conservation project — we’re working hand in hand with the community, so they can get the economic benefits of restoring the mangroves. Climate change is a global issue, we cannot solve the environment issues in one country and consider the work done globally.”
Lisa also shared how women leaders from India like Dia give her hope. “I cannot be safe if you’re not safe and vice versa. Climate change requires global action and awareness, and it’s wonderful that you’ve contributed by using your voice to spread this message. Sometimes you see the most powerful solutions coming from the places dealing with the worst impacts. When we talk about climate change, we’re talking about our children’s future. That affects all of us, so there’s a role for everyone to play.”
