Skullcandy Transparency Hesh Evo: Going green

Skullcandy has marketed this semi-transparent wireless headphone as one of the most climate-friendly electronics options on the market.

- JAMES BARBER

There's no doubt that massive growth in the consumer electronics market comes at a cost to the planet. Is there a way to enjoy all the benefits of modern audio while also offsetting the damage?

Skullcandy wants to counteract some of those environmental costs in its new Transparency series, which includes the limited-edition Skullcandy Transparency Jib True 2 Wireless Earbuds ($49.99) and the Transparency Hesh Evo Wireless Headphone. We've reviewed the Transparency Hesh Evo headphone here, and it's a pair of cans that will definitely get a reaction when you wear them outside your house.

HOW DO YOU GO GREEN WITH A HEADPHONE?

Partnering with TerraPass (fave.co/ 3TX1M4T) and EcoChain (fave.co/3TXfR20), a pair of companies that aim to help businesses make their products and manufacturing chains more eco-friendly, Skullcandy promises that the Transparency Hesh Evo has a net-zero carbon footprint. Each headphone contains a carbon emissions equivalent of 12.14 kg, which is then neutralized via carbon offset credits.

Granted, not all environmentally minded folks think offset credits are a good approach to climate issues, but the practice is widely accepted in the earth-friendly business community.

Skullcandy also says that a portion of its Transparency Hesh Evo proceeds will go to Protect Our Winters (fave.co/ 3Nn42jj), a nonprofit devoted to fighting climate change.

The packaging is 100 percent recyclable and, best of all, Skullcandy promises to give you 30 percent off your next purchase (fave.co/3Ugeewk) if you send in your old Skullcandy gear for recycling.

WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT THE TRANSPARENCY HESH EVO SERIES HEADPHONE?

After reviewing dozens of dull black headphones over the years that were basically indistinguishable at a distance, I like the fact that Skullcandy is making a statement with an over-ear headphone.