Climate change is happening now, which is why we at the IKEA Group are determined to play a part in preventing it by improving our overall energy efficiency and reducing our emissions of greenhouse gases.
Energy efficiency and emission reductions The long term direction is for all IKEA Group buildings to be supplied with renewable energy generated through energy sources other than fossil fuel. In addition, we want to improve the IKEA Group's overall energy efficiency by 25 percent compared with 2005. We will use energy-saving light bulbs where possible, will have the lights on only when warehouses are open, and will install extra insulation to save on energy for heating and cooling.
Then we are going to make sure that all IKEA Group stores, warehouses, distribution centers, factories and offices are heated and cooled using renewable fuels such as wind and solar power, and biofuels.
Efficient transport of products One way we can play our part is by moving our products efficiently. Our furniture has always been transported in flat-packs which means we get more items on trucks, boats or trains, so we make fewer journeys, use less fuel and create fewer emissions.
A network of transport companies helps us move our products from factories to stores, via distribution centers and warehouses. The transport service providers must commit to our code of conduct - The IKEA Way on Distributing Home Furnishing Products - and follow its requirements, such as the use of modern vehicles with cleaner fuels and emissions targets.
Efficient transport of people We also work to provide our customers and co-workers with the possibility to leave their cars at home and come to IKEA by public transport. For customers considering using public transport, we offer a convenient home-delivery service.
When we are planning a new IKEA store, the issue of good public transport links is an important consideration. And we are working to improve access to our existing stores by bus or train. In many cities we even run a free bus service to and from our stores.
All our delivery companies must use "green" vehicles by 2009, and all IKEA Group company cars will be "green" by 2010.
Climate projects with WWF The IKEA Group and WWF, the global conservation organization, co-operate on projects aimed at reducing the emissions of greenhouse gas (carbon dioxide) associated with IKEA operations, in order to reduce its contribution to climate change. The agreement covers two main areas: • Increasing energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy at IKEA suppliers. • Developing sustainable people transportation. Read more about the IKEA and WWF Co-operation