Sort of like how they've toyed with the EU's upcoming requirement that devices standardize on USB-C to stop there being so many useless and obsolete chargers, by making a usb-c charger and then forcing a usb-c to magsafe or lightning "conversion cable" to plug the device in to the charger.
And how is this a problem? Too many cables? Do cables really represent a big environmental impact? These cables are consumable and typically need to be replaced on a regular basis. Different connectors on the cable will not change anything. This might increase waste when switching between devices - but only if you don't give your old cables away. This is just so minor.
It is the wall plugs that represent the waste that the EU is attempting to avoid. They do not wear out and can be shared between devices. Adopting a standard will have a legitimate impact on the amount of discarded electronics. Not just unused chargers, but also devices that have lost their power bricks. And we can not forget about all the devices damaged by using the wrong power brick.
So yes, this is a great idea. And I do not think that Apple is subverting the main goal of the EU legislation with their cables. I can even see the advantage of allowing device manufacturers the ability to use custom connectors so long as they connect to standard Type-C based charger. It allows for future innovation. Future products might have difficulty facilitating a Type-C connector.
Most likely they're trying to "embrace-extend-extinguish" the legislation by adding in so many loopholes or exceptions it becomes meaningless.
I am sure they would - but in this case it appears that this legislation is acceptable from their perspective. It does appear to be minimal and would allow Apple to operate without much in the way of changes. The big loophole being that manufacturers are not required to facilitate repairs when those repairs can be used to facilitate theft or bypass safety / security. Sounds reasonable, now the question is do the lid angle sensors prevent theft? If this forces Apple to facilitate such repairs then I say it is a win for everyone. At least it is a starting point, future extensions are always possible.