Lisa Jackson’s Legacy: Steering Apple’s Environmental and Social Initiatives
Lisa Jackson, Apple’s Vice President for Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, is set to retire in late January 2026, concluding a distinguished tenure that began in 2013. Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Apple’s commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
A Decade of Environmental Leadership
Before joining Apple, Jackson served as the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from 2009 to 2013 under President Barack Obama. In this role, she focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting air and water quality, and preventing exposure to toxic contamination. Her extensive experience in environmental policy made her an ideal candidate to lead Apple’s environmental initiatives.
At Apple, Jackson spearheaded efforts to minimize the company’s environmental impact. Under her leadership, Apple achieved a remarkable reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions by over 60% compared to 2015 levels. This achievement was part of Apple’s broader goal to become carbon neutral across its entire business, manufacturing supply chain, and product life cycle by 2030.
Jackson also played a pivotal role in Apple’s transition to renewable energy. She oversaw the company’s initiatives to power all its facilities worldwide with 100% renewable energy, a milestone Apple reached in 2018. This commitment extended to Apple’s suppliers, encouraging them to adopt clean energy practices and reduce their carbon footprints.
Advancing Social Initiatives
Beyond environmental sustainability, Jackson led Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, launched in 2020. This initiative aimed to address systemic racism and promote equity within the company and the broader community. Under her guidance, Apple invested in education, economic empowerment, and criminal justice reform programs, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility.
Jackson was also responsible for Apple’s worldwide Government Affairs team. She engaged with governments globally, advocating for policies that aligned with Apple’s values, including privacy, security, education, and accessibility. Her strategic partnerships and advocacy efforts ensured that Apple’s voice was influential in policy discussions affecting the tech industry.
Transition and Future Leadership
As Jackson prepares to retire, Apple has outlined a transition plan for her responsibilities. The Environment and Social Initiatives teams will report to Chief Operating Officer Sabih Khan, ensuring continuity in Apple’s sustainability and social programs. The Government Affairs organization will transition to General Counsel Kate Adams, who will oversee the team until her retirement in late 2026. Following Adams’ departure, Jennifer Newstead, currently Meta’s Chief Legal Officer, will assume the role of Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Government Affairs.
Acknowledging a Legacy
Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed deep appreciation for Jackson’s contributions, stating, She has been instrumental in helping us reduce our global greenhouse emissions by more than 60 percent compared to 2015 levels. She has also been a critical strategic partner in engaging governments around the world, advocating for the best interests of our users on a myriad of topics, as well as advancing our values, from education and accessibility to privacy and security.
Jackson reflected on her tenure, calling Apple a remarkable company and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead its environmental and social initiatives. She emphasized the importance of reducing environmental impact as both a moral obligation and a business imperative, highlighting the innovative and dedicated teams she had the privilege to lead.
Looking Ahead
Jackson’s retirement comes at a time when Apple continues to face challenges and opportunities in environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The company’s ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 requires ongoing commitment and innovation. The transition of leadership roles presents an opportunity for Apple to build upon Jackson’s legacy and further integrate environmental and social considerations into its business strategy.
As Apple navigates this transition, the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship and social equity remains a core aspect of its identity. The leadership changes signal a continued commitment to these values, ensuring that Apple’s impact extends beyond technology to contribute positively to society and the planet.
