Key Takeaways
1. The Apple Watch Series 10 is marketed as climate-neutral, relying on renewable energy for production and using plastic-free, recycled packaging.
2. Apple ships at least half of the devices using ground or sea methods to reduce transportation emissions.
3. Each Apple Watch Series 10 reportedly results in 8.3 kilograms of CO₂ emissions, which Apple offsets by purchasing carbon offset certificates.
4. Concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of the eucalyptus plantations funded by the carbon offset certificates, including soil health and water usage issues.
5. A German court ruling questions Apple’s greenwashing claims, potentially preventing the company from promoting the watch as climate-neutral in Germany starting in September.
The Apple Watch Series 10 (starting from $399 on Amazon) is marketed as being climate-neutral, as stated on Apple’s product website. An environmental report explains that the smartwatch is supposedly free from carbon dioxide emissions, at least in theory. To begin with, the production of the Apple Watch Series 10 relies entirely on renewable energy sources. The packaging is fully devoid of plastic and is made from recycled or sustainably sourced wood fibers.
Shipping Practices
In addition, Apple ships at least half of the Apple Watch Series 10 models using ground or sea methods to lower transportation emissions. Apple’s internal data indicates that these practices lead to a total emission of 8.3 kilograms of CO₂ for each Apple Watch Series 10 produced. To achieve the claimed zero emissions, Apple buys carbon offset certificates. Yet, a court in Frankfurt, Germany, has raised concerns about these certificates, as the funds are directed towards eucalyptus plantations in Paraguay, which are meant to absorb the carbon dioxide generated during the smartwatch’s production.
Environmental Concerns
Nonetheless, such monoculture practices are said to harm soil health and consume large amounts of water. Furthermore, 75% of these trees are planted on leased land, which is only secured until 2029, leaving the future of these trees uncertain. A German environmental group filed a lawsuit to challenge Apple’s greenwashing claims. In a statement to Reuters, Apple mentioned that the court has “largely confirmed Apple’s consistent approach to carbon neutrality.” It remains uncertain whether Apple will contest the ruling. As per the court’s decision, Apple may no longer promote the smartwatch as climate-neutral starting in September, at least within Germany.
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