IKEA demonstrates how sustainability can be affordable for Aussies
Aussies say they're on board if it's easy.
Australians visiting IKEA expect to find affordable, ready-to-assemble furniture, homewares and appliances.
However, the release of the IKEA Australia People & Planet Positive Report emphasises the Swedish-borne retailer's strengthened commitment to sustainability, identifying ways in which everyday Aussies can save energy, money and the environment.
The report reveals cost is a significant barrier in the battle for sustainability. While more than half (57%) of Australians believe there are money and time saving benefits to being sustainable, almost one in two Aussies don't know where to start.
26% of Australians see no cost-saving benefits to being sustainable but the report reveals households discard $1,036 worth of food each year.
However, the majority of Aussies are already taking positive steps towards sustainability. 90% of Australians recycle, 79% restrict the use of air conditioning and heating in the home and 78% have made the switch to energy-efficient LED lighting.
63% of respondents say they're willing to invest in a more sustainable lifestyle if it's easy to do so.
In support of this, IKEA has designed and launched the Sustainability Studio at Sydney's aMBUSH Gallery to represent what a sustainable home can look like, with tips on how simple changes and swaps can make a difference to cost savings and energy efficiency.
IKEA Sustainability Studio kitchen. Photo: finder.com.au
For example, swapping one light bulb to LED can save consumers purchasing 22 traditional bulbs over time. LED lights use 85% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 20 times longer.
Water saving taps can save the equivalent of 260 baths per year and induction hobs in your kitchen heat up to 60% faster and use 40% less energy than glass or ceramic cooktops.
Even ironing and airing clothes on a rack, rather than using the dryer, can save cash and ensure your clothes last longer.
IKEA Australia's Richard Wilson says sustainability is not a new concept.
"Doing more with less has always been part of our DNA," he says.
"We want to better understand and identify the roadblocks associated with developing awareness and new concepts around sustainability, enhancing our ability to make a big difference to our environment, as well as to our customers' hip pockets.
"We are making sustainability even more affordable."
If you’re looking to save money on your energy bills, there are lots of ways you can go about it. We've compiled 35 smart tips to help get your started.
Picture: IKEA Australia
