The site does make some good points, but the fact that the iMac and Mac mini "feature built-in wireless technologies such as AirPort and Bluetooth, reducing the need for PVC-insulated cabling" probably isnt going to be the deal breaker for global warming
Seriously though, the new boxes are only marginally bigger than the iPod themselves, compared with the original box designs (which yes, did include a few more things, but generally had a fair bit of wasted space). Now they can fit say 3 or 4 times more iPods in the back of a truck/plane, so in getting from the factory to you (which is a long way), thats a lot less trucks and planes, and a lot less emissions. Which when you're shipping millions of them, I suspect adds up.
As for the thread, I think there are 2 issues here;
a) less packaging and more environmentally friendly materials etc
b) included accessories
As marykay9507 suggested, they're generally independent; the reason they dont include a power adaptor anymore isnt because they want to save the environment. It's because Apple don't think everyone needs one and hence they can save themselves some money, and can charge a premium to customers who do want one. Pretty good business move.
The only place where a) and b) are both relevant is the iTunes CD. By not having to manufacture the CD, it probably only saves Apple a couple of cents. But it allows for a considerably smaller box, hence reducing the transport costs dramatically, which is good for both Apple and the environment.
