Go Green with IKEA

IKEA's GreenTech Fund, started early this year, has provided funding for several environmentally friendly start-ups. Items coming to a store near you may include solar panels, energy efficient lighting, organic coffee, and toxic-free materials.

IKEA has set aside more than $77M for their GreenTech Fund, to be invested over the next five years. Not only will we see a greater number of "green" products filling the shelves but the elimination of disposable plastic bags and reduced product packaging. A quick browse through the IKEA's corporate site reveals their stated action in improving energy efficiency in their stores and reducing their emissions of greenhouse gases, using only responsibly managed forestry products, and partnerships with nongovernmental community organizations to positively improve their own environmental impact. With almost 300 stores in 30 countries, IKEA has the ability to reach millions of people with green, environmentally friendly products at affordable prices. IKEA's message of corporate responsibility and environmental sustainability will likely be one mirrored by their competitors in the months and years to come. You can find IKEA's [2005 & 2006] Environmental and Social Responsibility Reports here.