Jan 7, 2011 14:14 GMT  ·  By

Minutes ago, Apple announced that its proxy materials are now online under the SEC’s Notice and Access rules.

The Cupertino vendor of electronics claims to be able to significantly reduce its carbon footprint by replacing printed materials, as a result of the Commission’s Notice and Access rules.

Apple’s official announcement, as posted to the PR section of its web site, can be found below.

CUPERTINO, California—January 7, 2011—Apple® today announced that its 2011 proxy materials are now available on the web under the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s Notice and Access rules and can be found at www.apple.com/investor. As a result of the Notice and Access rules, Apple is able to significantly reduce the environmental impact of producing and delivering printed materials.

Apple shareholders can still receive a printed copy of the proxy materials free of charge by following the instructions provided at www.apple.com/investor or in the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials that will be mailed to individuals who were Apple shareholders as of December 27, 2010. Apple’s 2010 Form 10-K was filed on October 27, 2010 and may also be viewed at www.apple.com/investor.

Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork, and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple is reinventing the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App Store, and has recently introduced its magical iPad which is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices.

Via its Investor Relations website, Apple also confirmed plans to conduct a conference call to discuss financial results of its first fiscal quarter on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. PT.

The website also offers documentation on Apple’s commitment to the environment, its involvement in responsible supplier management, and more.