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Device repair or replacement? Microsoft data suggests one process reduces GHG emissions by more than 90 per cent

The vendor's data was analysed and published by consulting firm Oakdene Hollins, following accusations that Microsoft ‘restricts’ consumer access

An independent study published by Microsoft has found that device repair significantly reduces waste generation and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) when compared with device replacement.

The Summary of Sustainability Benefits of Microsoft Device Repair report written by environmental research and consulting firm Oakdene Hollins took a deep dive into the environmental benefits from improving the 'repairability' of Microsoft devices.

It used Microsoft's data regarding its repair operations, but was commissioned by the vendor.

The study found that, for the seven devices evaluated, repairing the product instead of device replacement can yield up to a 92 per cent reduction in potential waste generation and GHG emissions.

While more than 20 per cent of the net sustainability benefits of repair are determined by the transportation method and logistics for delivering devices to repair facilities.

Research also concluded that "mail-to" repair services offer the lowest GHG emissions, even over long distances, compared to other transportation methods, such as consumers driving their own vehicles to repair facilities.

Microsoft added that part of its strategy for improving speed and access to repair services is to increase the number of repair locations that are close to consumers.

However, the tech giant said consumers in remote locations may find a repair facility is not close by.

It claims it will target these remote customers for mail-to services provided this does not compromise speed of repair fulfilment.

Microsoft fails to see a fundamental principle of sustainability

The study was conducted in response to a shareholder resolution filed by not-for-profit As You Sow in June, which argued that Microsoft "restricts consumer access to device repairability, undermining our sustainability commitments."

Following this study, Kelly McBee, waste program coordinator at As You Sow, said: "Microsoft has communicated that these findings have been embraced throughout the company, which is laudable, and signifies that successful implementation is more likely.

"Just one year ago we were hearing a different message from the company on device repair and now, with the release and adoption of these study findings, the company is demonstrating important action to leverage device repair as a significant mechanism for meeting its climate goals."