**German Court Challenges Apple Watch’s Carbon Neutrality Claims**
In a pivotal verdict, a German court has ruled that Apple is no longer allowed to market the Apple Watch as a carbon-neutral item. This ruling comes after environmental advocates contended that Apple’s assertions misrepresented the ecological ramifications of its products.
The Frankfurt court concluded that Apple’s labeling of the Apple Watch as CO2-neutral was deceptive. The dispute emerged after Apple launched its inaugural carbon-neutral products, which included the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, in September 2023. As a consequence of the ruling, Apple is required to modify or eliminate any carbon neutrality terminology in its advertisements within German retail stores and online platforms.
In the United States, the Apple Online Store still advertises certain Apple Watch models as carbon neutral when combined with specific bands, including the Sport Loop, Milanese Loop, and Braided Solo Loop for the Apple Watch Series 10.
Apple’s environmental report reveals that the carbon footprint of an Apple Watch is roughly 8kg CO2, signifying an estimated 80% decrease compared to figures from 2015. To achieve a net carbon footprint of zero, Apple offsets carbon credits for every product it sells. The company implements various eco-friendly practices, such as utilizing low-carbon electricity, recycled materials, and alternative shipping methods, favoring ocean freight over air transport. Apple highlights that it applies carbon credits only after considerably lowering emissions.
The German court’s ruling prompts inquiries about the legitimacy of Apple’s carbon neutrality claims, particularly regarding the dependence on carbon credit offsets in determining net zero emissions. Presently, Apple designates both the Apple Watch and Mac mini as carbon-neutral products and has pledged to achieve zero net emissions across its complete product lineup by 2030.
