Apple Honors U.S. National Parks with Special Celebration

Apple Celebrates America’s National Parks: Donation Campaign and New Features on Apple Maps

August 19, 2024

In celebration of the U.S. National Park Service’s 108th anniversary this week, Apple has launched a special initiative to support and enhance the experience of America’s national parks. From today through August 25, Apple will contribute $10 to the National Park Foundation for each purchase made using Apple Pay on apple.com, the Apple Store app, or at any Apple Store in the U.S. This effort is part of Apple’s broader mission to protect and connect communities with these natural treasures.

Apple’s Commitment to National Parks

For the past eight years, Apple has actively engaged its customers in supporting the National Park Foundation. The company has introduced various content and resources across its platforms to help users connect with these beautiful and historic places. For instance, Apple Music now features the “Nature Awaits” playlist, which is playing in Apple retail stores nationwide. Additionally, Apple Maps has over 30 curated guides by the National Park Foundation to help users explore the parks.

Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, expressed his admiration for national parks, stating, "Every time I visit a national park, I’m struck by their extraordinary beauty and incredibly rich history. We’re proud to partner with the National Park Foundation to help preserve these natural treasures that inspire so many people. Their important work helps ensure that future generations will be able to experience that same sense of awe, wonder, and reverence for the planet we call home.”

Supporting Future Park Stewards

The National Park Foundation funds a range of programs to ensure that America’s national parks remain places where nature thrives and visitors can learn and explore. These programs, like Field Science and ParkVentures, aim to create pathways for young people to engage in immersive learning experiences and explore careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Apple’s support has been instrumental in funding initiatives like the EcoLogik Institute, which aims to foster the next generation of park stewards.

This summer, in collaboration with Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, California, the EcoLogik Institute is empowering young explorers and scientists aged 10 to 16. These young minds are given the opportunity to deepen their connection to nature and see themselves as future scientists, engineers, and leaders. Participants gain valuable hands-on experience in natural resources science through apprenticeships and other work experiences.

For 17-year-old Addison Shapiro, the experience at EcoLogik camp was transformative. Addison stated, “EcoLogik has given me an amazing community. I’ve made so many lifelong friends and met inspiring women in STEM who have not only broadened my perspective but also motivated me to pursue a career in the life sciences.”

Will Shafroth, the National Park Foundation’s president and CEO, added, “By investing in the interest and passion of young women and girls who want to explore careers in STEM, we can empower them to become the next generation of environmental stewards. The EcoLogik Institute’s project is proof that when we nurture a love of science, provide access to national parks, and equip young women like Addison with the tools to succeed, they will see their potential come to life. With the support of Apple, together we’re creating a future where every girl can see herself as the next scientist, park ranger, and other endless aspirations.”

New Features on Apple Maps

This fall, Apple Maps will introduce new features designed to enhance the user experience in exploring national parks. Users will be able to browse thousands of hikes across U.S. national parks, filtered by length, elevation, and route type. They will also get turn-by-turn guidance to make navigation easier. Additionally, topographic maps with contour lines and trail details will be available on iPhone, allowing users to build custom walking routes tailored to their preferences. Whether it’s a steep uphill climb or a leisurely walk, these routes can be saved and accessed offline, making it convenient for those in areas with limited cell service or Wi-Fi.

To further celebrate national parks, Apple Watch users around the world can earn a limited-edition award and animated stickers for Messages by recording any workout of 20 minutes or more on August 25.

Apple’s Broader Environmental Commitment

Apple’s efforts to support national parks are part of the company’s larger global commitment to protecting the environment and supporting communities. Currently, Apple is carbon neutral across its global corporate operations and is working towards becoming carbon neutral across its entire supply chain and the lifetime use of its products by 2030. This ambitious goal, known as Apple 2030, aims to significantly reduce the company’s carbon footprint.

Final Thoughts and Additional Information

Apple’s initiative to celebrate and support America’s national parks is a commendable effort that aligns with its broader environmental and community-focused goals. This campaign not only helps preserve the natural beauty and rich history of these parks but also encourages future generations to take an active role in environmental stewardship. By making it easier for users to explore national parks through enhanced features on Apple Maps and supporting educational programs for youth, Apple is fostering a deeper connection between technology, nature, and community.

For more information, you can contact:

• Sean Redding, Apple
  • Email: s_redding@apple.com
• Apple Media Helpline
  • Email: media.help@apple.com

    In conclusion, Apple’s celebration of America’s national parks through donations and enhanced user experiences is a significant step towards preserving these natural treasures for future generations. By integrating technology with nature, Apple continues to inspire and connect people to the beauty and importance of the natural world.

For more Information, Refer to this article.