A German court has ruled that Apple can no longer advertise the Apple Watch Series 10 as climate neutral, challenging the company’s environmental claims. The decision was made following a lawsuit by a local environmental group.
Apple had promoted the Apple Watch Series 10, priced from $399, as its first fully climate-neutral product, citing renewable energy use and plastic-free packaging made from recycled materials.
However, the court found these claims misleading, particularly because Apple relies on carbon offset certificates—payments to plant trees—to balance emissions. Critics argue that these efforts, including eucalyptus plantations on leased land expiring in 2029, lack long-term guarantees and may harm the environment due to high water use and monoculture issues.
The ruling, effective from September, prohibits Apple from using the climate-neutral label in Germany, labeling it as greenwashing—exaggerated eco-friendly marketing.
Apple has responded by saying the court largely supports its approach, but it’s unclear if an appeal will follow. This decision raises questions about how companies prove their environmental promises, with some suggesting Apple’s methods may not be as solid as claimed.
