Chinese firm launches carbon-neutral earphones

A Shenzhen-based company launched the world’s first zero-carbon open-ear earbuds, the Cleer ARC 3, on Monday. The release coincided with global Earth Day celebrations and is part of a series of technological advancements propelled by China’s “dual carbon goals” as reported by Xinhua.

The Cleer ARC 3, produced by Shenzhen Grandsun Electronic Co., Ltd., featuring enhanced AI functions and an open-ear design, allows users to stay connected with their surroundings.

The device has achieved carbon neutrality by maximising the use of recyclable materials, green electricity, and low-power equipment, according to Wu Haiquan, the company’s president.

While carbon-neutral production is a growing trend in consumer electronics, it remains a rarity due to the complex production and supply chain processes involved. Apple made headlines last year with its first carbon-neutral watch and aims to make all its products carbon-neutral by 2030.

Wu expressed hope that the launch of the Cleer ARC 3 would inspire other companies to follow suit, fostering a trend of low-carbon consumption. Grandsun, established in 1997 and known for its Cleer brand since 2012, is committed to zero-carbon production in response to China’s call for manufacturers to reduce their carbon footprints.

China, under its “dual carbon goals” of peaking carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, is actively promoting the use of clean energy and green technologies in manufacturing. The country is already the world’s largest market for new energy vehicles (NEVs).