How does IKEA make sure its wood is responsibly sourced?
We have a comprehensive wood control system to ensure the wood we use comes from responsibly managed forests. IWAY, our supplier code of conduct, sets strict requirements for suppliers, while independent certification provides an additional level of assurance. Together with other controls, these measures uphold our high standards. IKEA does not accept wood that fails to meet these requirements, and if we identify any potential non-compliance or breaches of the law, we take immediate action.
IKEA suppliers must commit to:
- Using only tree species approved by IKEA
- Knowing the wood origin
- Using only wood that meets IKEA forest materials requirements
- Not using wood that comes from illegally harvested forests
- Not using wood that comes from operations engaged in forest-related social conflicts
- Not using wood that is harvested in intact natural forests or high conservation value forests, unless certified
- Not using wood that is harvested from natural forests in the (sub)tropical regions being converted to plantations or non-forest use
- Not using wood from officially recognised and geographically identified commercial genetically modified tree plantations
- Not sourcing from forests in regions under international sanctions
Our control system
Our comprehensive due diligence system consists of:
Traceability
All suppliers must be able to track the origin of the wood used in IKEA products. We require all suppliers to provide reports on their wood use three times a year and be able to provide more information, upon request. IKEA requires suppliers to annually submit their wood procurement plans, which helps to identify and proactively mitigate any potential risks.
Procedures in place
All suppliers must implement our requirements throughout their supply chain.
Audits by IKEA and external auditors
To verify the compliance of the wood entering our supply chain, IWAY audits are carried out by approved auditors. These audits, announced and unannounced, are conducted at IKEA business partners using forest materials, and across selected high-risk supply chains. IKEA does not accept wood that fails to meet the required standards of IWAY. That means no sourcing of wood from, for example, illegally harvested areas, areas with social conflicts related to the forest and no sourcing from Intact Forest Landscapes (IFL) or other geographically identified High Conservation Value Forests (HCVF), unless the area is certified by a forest certification system recognised by IKEA. We have integrated forensic methods such as anatomic, isotope and DNA analysis to verify wood species and origins as a part of our forestry due diligence system on a risk-based approach.
Third party audits
To ensure additional independent verification, external third-party audits evaluate and confirm compliance. If we identify any potential non-compliance with our requirements or any breaches of the law, we take immediate action.
Certification
We require that our suppliers comply with the strictest standards developed by credible, global third-party certification systems, like the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®).
Under no circumstances do we accept wood that fails to meet our critical requirements. If we discover irregularities, we take immediate action.
Why do we use FSC-certified wood?
At IKEA, we believe we can accomplish more by working together. For many years, we have been committed to working with different stakeholders to protect and strengthen the world’s forests. One of our key partners is the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®), an organisation that brings together different voices that represent a wide range of needs for responsible forest management.
FSC is an independent global certification system. FSC sets strict requirements for forest managers to maintain forest cover and conserve or enhance forest structure, biodiversity, and productivity, preventing deforestation and deterioration of forest health and resilience in the long term. We believe FSC is the most credible certification due to its comprehensive scope. FSC prohibits all human‑driven activities that permanently change forest cover in High Conservation Value areas, which are home to endangered species, vital ecosystems, cultural heritage sites, and essential resources for local communities and Indigenous Peoples. Independent third‑party evaluations confirm this on the ground. FSC also supports community rights and takes action to develop a fair and safe environment for those working in the forest. FSC‑certified wood means it comes from sources where forests are regenerated, preventing net loss of forest cover.
FSC's democratic and transparent approach allows all stakeholders, including businesses and environmental groups, to contribute by using their voice to strengthen the certification system. IKEA, one of the founding members in 1994, is now one of over 1,100 FSC members, and we encourage others to join and contribute with their knowledge and insights.
