New Apple Pay donation program, Apple Watch Activity Challenge support national parks

Apple has introduced new ways customers can enjoy and support America’s national parks with an Apple Pay donation program and Apple Watch Activity Challenge.

From now through Aug. 31, Apple is donating $1 to the National Park Foundation for every purchase made with Apple Pay at any Apple Store, on apple.com or through the Apple Store app in the U.S. Proceeds will support the National Park Foundation’s mission to protect national parks through projects like habitat restoration and historic preservation and engage the next generation of park stewards through programs like Open OutDoors for Kids.

“America’s national parks are treasures everyone should experience, and we’re proud to support them again this month by donating a dollar for every purchase made with Apple Pay at one of our stores,” Apple CEO Tim Cook said in a press release. “These awe-inspiring places are our national inheritance, and Apple is doing our part to pass them on to future generations — just as extraordinary, beautiful and wild as we found them.”

On Sept. 1, Apple Watch users around the world who complete a walk, run or wheelchair workout of 50 minutes of more will earn an Activity app award and stickers for Messages inspired by national parks. The 50 minutes pays homage to Redwood National Park’s 50th anniversary celebration this year.

The App Store will also highlight a collection of some of the best apps to help users easily navigate and explore the country’s most beautiful national parks.