Wood is an essential part of the IKEA identity. We invest in forestland because we believe we can play an important role in supplying wood from more sustainable sources for our everyday lives. Responsible wood sourcing is crucial for a healthier planet, a more sustainable future and more balanced ecosystems for generations to come.
“We take pride in our responsible forest management and strive to lead by example, recognising our ability and responsibility to further improve.”
As at July 2024
320,000+ hectares of forests in seven countries (the Baltic states, Romania, United States, Aotearoa New Zealand and Finland)
Approximately 14 million seedlings planted (financial year 2024 level)
Almost 10,000 hectares of afforestation and regeneration (financial year 2024)
21% of forest area included in conservation area network (including HCV)
About 5% of our harvested wood goes back into IKEA products through the open market
“Our forests are mankind’s greatest assets”, Ingvar Kamprad, 1996
Through our everyday work we want to show that responsible forest management is good from both a commercial and environmental perspective. We manage our forest portfolio with a focus on three pillars – wood as a vital resource, engagement with communities and partners and long-term mindset.
We set aside 22% of our forest areas to prioritise environmental objectives first, with half designated as no-harvest zones to protect rare, threatened, and endangered species and habitats.
Using digital tools, such as drones, satellite imagery, and mobile apps, we aim to harness the power of data to optimise our conservation efforts.
We are dedicated to minimising the impact on wildlife and safeguarding habitats and ecosystems, both in our set aside priority areas and within our commercial forest areas.
While all our forests are FSC certified (or in the process of certification), we aim to go beyond. FSC certification ensures no net forest loss, but we want to set higher standards for responsible forestry by aiming to pilot an approach that emphasises minimal intervention and natural regeneration.
Almost all of our forests are accessible to the public to be enjoyed, from hikers, to photographers, campers and foragers. We want local people to enjoy the benefits of the forests.
Local communities are involved in decision making and our forest management plans publicly available. Community engagement is about more than just consultation; it’s about building long-term relationships and trust.
We collaborate with local conservation organisations to ensure we work with local experts as we conduct biodiversity studies, mapping and monitoring programs.
By investing in community programs and activities in our forests, we hope to not only improve community well-being, but also promote a culture of stewardship and encourage shared responsibility for forest preservation.
We are active members of the communities we operate in, supporting local economies and businesses as we believe forests should benefit the people who depend on them.
By creating local jobs with fair wages and safe working conditions, we aim to provide decent and meaningful work for those who depend on forests. Our partners are held to the highest industry standards, ensuring that they follow globally recognised credible certification systems that protect workers’ safety and rights.
Wherever wood is harvested, the areas are replanted with seedlings or through natural regeneration.
We also plant trees to create new forests on land that did not previously have forests on it, such as land that is less suitable for highly productive crop farming. By carefully planning to ensure that the right species are planted in the right places, we aim to maximise both ecological and economic benefits while creating new habitats for wildlife.
Did you know…
Sustainability
3 May 2022
Ingka Investments
13 January 2022
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14 January 2021
Ingka Investments
15 September 2021
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