In light of COVID-19, furniture brand and winner of the World Branding Awards, IKEA joins forces with 155 businesses by signing the UN-backed statement “Uniting business and governments to recover better”. In the climate advocacy effort, businesses urge governments for a net-zero recovery from COVID-19 and ambitious climate actions.
The letter puts focus on the close connection between the transition to a resilient, zero-carbon economy and a positive recovery. The statement is part of the Science-Based Targets initiative and its Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign.
”Even if the pandemic calls for urgent measures it is more important than ever to not lose sight of long-term commitments”, says Torbjörn Lööf, CEO of Inter IKEA Group. “Now is also the time to lay the groundwork for a positive recovery which is good for people, society and the planet. A more modern, inclusive and circular economy built on renewable energy is the way forward and collaboration is more important than ever.”
The letter states, “We must move beyond business-as-usual and work together in solidarity to deliver the greatest impact for people, prosperity and the planet”. Key points include the need to base work on the best available climate science, push for investments which support the transformation to a green and socially inclusive economy and the scaling up this movement to reach critical mass.
IKEA remains committed to becoming climate positive and circular by 2030, reducing more greenhouse gas emissions than the total IKEA value chain emits whilst growing the IKEA business. To reach the climate goals the IKEA business will strive for 100% renewable energy in all IKEA operations and enabling their suppliers and customers to do the same by innovating and using more sustainable materials and food ingredients, e.g. plant-based food, 100% recycled or renewable materials, and more.
Ikea will transform into a circular business by developing circular products and services and promote a longer and more efficient product and material use. As well as store carbon in land, plants & products by investing and improving management practices and responsible sourcing standards for forestry and agriculture.
IKEA will continue to support initiatives which demonstrate leadership and pushes for bold action. The long-term economic recovery packages will set the strategic direction of the global economy for years to come. IKEA urges policymakers to specifically consider some areas, including higher ambition for 2030 reduction target, all countries need to step up their efforts to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5°C, making it easy for companies to make their contribution.
Last but not least, to support poor and vulnerable communities who are the hardest hit by climate change, with a focus on climate adaptation and resilience to alleviate poverty and ensure food security. And the importance of electrification and sustainable biofuels, with focus on the electrifying current use of fuels and using scarce biofuels only where needed.
