• Xbox expands repairability program, offering more ways to fix consoles and reduce electronic waste.
• Energy efficiency updates cut Xbox’s carbon footprint, saving 1.2 million metric tons of CO2e.
• Xbox packaging eliminates single-use plastics as part of Microsoft’s sustainability goals.

Expanding Repairability and Reducing Waste

Xbox is expanding its repairability program, offering more options for console repairs to extend device longevity and reduce waste. Players can now get their Xbox Series X|S consoles repaired at nearly 700 uBreakiFix by Asurion stores across the U.S., the first Xbox Authorized Service Provider. Previously, in-person repairs were only available through the Microsoft Store.

Players can also purchase replacement components for their consoles directly from the Microsoft Store and the Microsoft Repair Hub on iFixit, marking a shift from the previous limitation of only controller parts being available.

“By expanding the number of ways players can get support and repair for their Xbox consoles, we also help extend the longevity of Xbox devices, reduce waste, promote re-use, and ultimately reduce our environmental impact,” Xbox stated.

Eliminating Single-Use Plastics

As part of Microsoft’s broader sustainability initiative, Xbox has transitioned the packaging for its three Series X|S console models to be fully paper and fiber-based, removing all single-use plastics. This aligns with Microsoft’s goal to eliminate single-use plastics in packaging by 2025.

Related Article: Microsoft Expands Sustainability Manager Tool to Include Enhanced ESG Reporting and Compliance Features

Energy Efficiency Cuts Carbon Impact

Xbox has implemented system updates that have prevented over 1.2 million metric tons of CO2e emissions between FY20 and FY23, equivalent to more than 3 billion miles driven by gasoline-powered cars, according to the U.S. EPA.

Additionally, updates to how Xbox Series S handles video content have reduced power consumption by nearly 10% across media apps. Players can further reduce energy usage by enabling the ‘Shutdown (energy saving)’ power option in their settings, which does not impact gameplay or performance.

Industry Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

Xbox is also working with game developers to implement sustainability tools, such as the Xbox Sustainability Toolkit, helping studios create energy-efficient games.

“Gaming brings joy to players, but we recognize it also has an impact on our environment,” Xbox noted. “Our commitment is to work towards minimizing that impact by providing game creators with the tools and solutions to build a more sustainable gaming future.”

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