IKEA is a company that prides itself on its sustainability practices. They want to inspire and enable as many people as possible to live more sustainably, making it easy and affordable. IKEA is also transforming the way they work to become circular and climate positive and to have a positive social impact wherever they are in the world.
One of the ways that IKEA shows their sustainability is through their use of renewable and recycled materials. They aim to eliminate waste in their operations and change the way they design products and services to prolong the life of products and see them as resources for the future. For instance, they have switched their entire lighting range to energy-efficient LED and all of the cotton they use in their products comes from more sustainable sources. They are also working towards 100% renewable energy – producing as much as they consume.
IKEA has loads of products and solutions to make your home more sustainable, some of them without you even noticing it. For example, you can save lots of energy with their LED lamps, induction cooktop, fridges, freezers, and washing machines, and switching to one of their water-saving faucets can reduce your water usage. Good food storage products help prevent waste, and their waste sorting solutions make recycling simple. Small actions such as these can make a big difference in creating a more sustainable future.
Making more from less is part of the IKEA culture. They constantly look for ways to get the most out of every step in their production. Their two biggest raw materials today are cotton and wood, used in many of their products. Ensuring that these are sourced and used in a sustainable way is crucial and can make a big difference for our planet. With cotton, they have already reached one important goal. Since 2015, all the cotton they use for IKEA products comes from more sustainable sources. This means that the cotton is either recycled or grown with less water, chemical fertilizer, and pesticide while increasing profit margins for farmers. When it comes to wood, their goal is to source all of their wood from more sustainable sources by 2020.
Their sustainability practices extend beyond their products and materials. In 2020, they will produce as much renewable energy as they consume, thanks to huge investments in wind turbines and solar panels. Additionally, their vision of “creating a better everyday life for the many people” also means respecting and creating a better life for people and communities directly influenced by their business. From their co-workers and suppliers to children and families living in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities, they always strive to promote equality, diversity, and respect for human rights in everything they do. They work closely with their suppliers and through their code of conduct, called the IWAY Standard, to ensure fair conditions and a safe work environment, which plays an important role in these positive developments. It ensures a safe and healthy work environment and prevents pollution to air, ground, and water, as well as at least minimum wages and overtime compensation.
Takeaway
IKEA’s commitment to sustainability is exemplary, and they have taken significant steps towards creating a more sustainable future. The company has set a high bar by implementing various sustainable practices, such as using renewable and recycled materials, eliminating waste in their operations, and promoting product longevity.
Additionally, IKEA’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond their products and materials. The company works diligently to ensure fair conditions and a safe work environment for everyone across their value chain, from their suppliers to their employees. This level of dedication to sustainability sets a positive example for other companies to follow.
By making small changes in our homes and businesses, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future, and IKEA’s efforts provide a blueprint for us to do so. Furthermore, their commitment to sustainability serves as a reminder that sustainability is not just about reducing our carbon footprint; it is about creating a more equitable and prosperous future for everyone.
Overall, IKEA’s sustainability practices are commendable, and their actions serve as an inspiration to businesses and individuals alike. By following their lead and taking meaningful steps towards sustainability, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.