Forget your Apple Watch: 'self-powering', health-sensing fabrics that draw energy from our bodies are being worked on as the next evolution of wearables

This article is part of a series of sustainability-themed articles we're running to observe Earth Day 2026 and promote more sustainable practices. Check out all of our Sustainability Week 2026 content.

Even the best smartwatches have a big sustainability problem. Like most other smart gadgets these days, they are sealed units, without the ability to be mended and repaired, unless you send one back to the original company under warranty — and even then, they often end up on the scrap heap anyway. E-waste is a major concern of any small gadget containing tiny computing technology and lithium batteries.

Some strides have been made. Google, for example, has made the Google Pixel Watch 4 repairable with tiny screws, replaceable displays and batteries. Garmin also has its Power Glass solar charging technology, lengthening the watch’s battery life and reducing the amount you need ...