Improvement #30

Save water every time you turn on the tap.

RINGSKÄR taps come with a flow control function. The water flow can be adjusted in two steps with the lever, so customers can avoid unnecessary water waste. Most IKEA taps are fitted with a Pressure Compensating Aerator (PCA) that can reduce water use by 30%.

Improvement #34

Recycle that right here.

RATIONELL is a simple waste system that helps organise and recycle household waste, more effectively. Easy-to-clean bins will be available in a variety of sizes and are designed for different types of household waste - from glass bottles and newspapers to food scraps and batteries.

Improvement #35

A stitch in time.

In 2005 IKEA initiated a pilot project in which approximately 2,000 women took part. They embroider cushion covers, IKEA PS GRINDTORP, which are sold in IKEA stores. The women had previously been part of self-help groups during the IKEA and UNICEF partnership to prevent child labour in 500 villages in northern India, 2000-2007, and they were trained in children’s rights, health and nutrition.

Improvement #36

Bright ideas that pay for themselves.

SPARSAM low energy bulbs are a great alternative to traditional incandescent bulbs. They last up to ten times longer and the energy consumption is reduced by up to 80% over the bulb’s lifetime. One 20-watt bulb provides as much light as a 100-watt incandescent bulb, without getting anywhere near as hot.

Improvement #39

We got the lead out long ago.

All drinking glasses sold at IKEA are lead-free. In 1994, we decided to phase out the use of lead crystal glass, since it contains lead, a highly toxic heavy metal.

Improvement #40

Woven instead of wasted.

Versatile NÄSUM baskets are made from what most people would consider waste: remnants from banana trees after the harvest. Once a banana tree has produced its golden fruit, the trunk slowly dies. Instead of being thrown away, the trunk is cut into strips and left in the sun to dry. Once woven, NÄSUM is made durable with water-based lacquer.