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Top tips for sustainable living

The new Better World Starts At Home movement shows we all have the power to reduce our impact on the environment. Here are some simple ideas to get you started.

Our small steps add up to a big difference

IKEA has a goal: to inspire and enable 1 billion people to live a better life within the planet’s limits. It’s a big aim, but it’s about making small changes. “Using more sustainable options – whether it’s switching to LED bulbs or growing salad with the VÄXER hydroponic kit – often has added benefits, like saving time or money,” says Joanna Yarrow, IKEA head of sustainable and healthy living.

Going vegetarian three days a week could cut your carbon footprint by 9%. IKEA veggie balls are just one tasty way to do something better for the planet.

Try bulk cooking and using storage containers, such as the IKEA 365+ range, for leftovers. Eating leftovers five times a week could cut your carbon footprint by 5%.

The space-saving VARIERA modular recycling system is made out of recycled plastic – to recycle plastic in! By 2030, we aim to only use renewable or recycled materials in all IKEA products.

Choose long-lasting solutions. LED bulbs use less electricity and last for up to 20 years. Using one rechargeable battery could prevent 1,500 single-use batteries going to landfill.

Drying laundry on a rack instead of using a tumble dryer could cut your carbon footprint by 4% and save money on electricity.

Try keeping your shower time to three minutes, to reduce your water consumption by up to 50 litres a day. But, if you do take a little longer, IKEA taps and showers help reduce water usage by up to 50%.

Time to take action

“Together, we have the power to make a difference – it’s exciting,” says Joanna. To find 75 easy ideas for eco living, download the new Better Living app. “It shows how much energy, carbon or water you’re saving in real time, and you can build a social support network. There’s a lot we can do together!”

You can halve your carbon footprint, just by using what’s already available. It’s a win-win – making life better for us all as individuals, while having a positive impact on the planet.
Joanna Yarrow, IKEA head of sustainable and healthy living

Download the Better Living app for more ideas and inspiration

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