Tech giant Apple has come a long way on conflict minerals. In 2010, they were one of the worst consumer electronics companies in their response to this serious problem, and Enough Project, Campus Progress, and A Thousand Sisters protested the opening of their store in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. But Apple has started to turn the corner on conflict minerals with some substantial steps.
Apple recently joined the Public Private Alliance on Responsible Minerals Trade. With such large players entering the game, conflict minerals due diligence is gaining momentum. Of particular interest is Apple's transparency effort and policy to require its supplier to source from certified smelters. Ongoing monitoring is recommended!