Climate change: how we’re part of the solution

The IKEA Foundation is joining forces with We Mean Business and Here Now to take action on climate change.

As world leaders meet to sign the Paris Agreement on climate change, we’re announcing a new partnership to help create a clean energy economy. The event also coincides with Earth Day, April 22, 2016.

The Paris Agreement on climate change limits the global temperature rise to two degrees Celsius. At last December’s COP21 summit, 195 nations agreed to keep to this limit.

The new partnership will build on momentum created by the agreement. We Mean Business is working with thousands of the world’s leading businesses and investors to move towards a low carbon economy. Its counterpart, Here Now, creates campaigns to inspire citizens around the world to support climate change solutions.

“Businesses recognise that the transition to a low-carbon economy is the only way to secure sustainable economic growth and prosperity for all,” said Nigel Topping, CEO of We Mean Business. “Our role is to convey the collective voice of the silent majority of businesses and to ask governments to get on with climate-friendly policies.”

By promoting a 100% clean energy economy, more recycling and renewable technologies, and less waste, the partnership will improve life for children and families in poor communities most at risk from climate change.

Jessy Tolkan, Executive Director of Here Now, said: “With IKEA Foundation’s crucial support, we’re delighted to be launching a rich programme of campaigns that will mobilise millions to help build the world our children deserve to grow up in.”

Jonathan Spampinato, Head of Communications at the IKEA Foundation, said: “Climate change threatens children’s rights, their security and even their futures. Today’s children, and their children, will suffer the negative consequences of a warming planet—unless we act now.

“Finding solutions to climate change, and deploying them at a mass scale, is key to creating a brighter long-term future for children and families everywhere, including those living in some of the world’s poorest communities.”

In June 2015, we announced our own climate action commitment of €400 million through 2020. The new grant, for €12.6 million, is part of this commitment.