Why Apple No Longer Calls the Apple Watch and Mac mini Carbon Neutral

Apple’s Carbon Neutral Push

Apple first promoted the Apple Watch Series 9 and Mac mini as its “carbon neutral” products, thanks to an ~80% emissions reduction combined with high-quality carbon offsets. This was part of its broader Apple 2030 plan to make its supply chain carbon neutral.

EU Regulation Forces Change

However, Apple has now stopped using the “carbon neutral” label in product marketing. This isn’t a change in policy — it’s a response to an upcoming EU law taking effect in September 2026. The new regulation bans the use of terms like “carbon neutral” in marketing, even if products truly meet the definition.

Why the EU Took This Approach

EU regulators want to prevent inconsistent interpretations of what “carbon neutral” means across industries. Instead of allowing flexibility, they’ve taken a hardline stance: no company can advertise a product as carbon neutral.

Apple’s New Marketing Strategy

In preparation, Apple has adjusted its environmental messaging globally. While it can’t highlight the label, its work continues: the Apple Watch Series 11, for example, emits 8.1kg of CO₂ compared to 8.3kg for the Series 10.

Still on Track for 2030

Despite the change in wording, Apple maintains it is on track to hit its ambitious 2030 goal of achieving full carbon neutrality across its entire supply chain.