Ikea is launching new curtains to help reduce indoor air pollution.
Using a unique technology developed by the Ikea team over the past few years, the GUNRID curtains – set to hit stores next year – will break down air pollutants when it gets into contact with light. It works in a similar way to photosynthesis found in nature, where the process is activated by light.
‘Besides enabling people to breathe better air at home, we hope that GUNRID will increase people’s awareness of indoor air pollution, inspiring behavioural changes that contribute to a world of clean air,’ says Lena Pripp-Kovac, Head of Sustainability at Inter Ikea Group.
Ikea
‘GUNRID is the first product to use the technology, but the development will give us opportunities for future applications on other textiles,’ continues Lena.
Mauricio Affonso, Product Developer at IKEA Range & Supply, adds: ‘Textiles are used across homes and by enabling a curtain to purify the air, we are creating an affordable and space-saving air purifying solution that also makes the home more beautiful.’
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Ikea has been working hard to reduce air pollution from its own operations, by phasing out hazardous chemicals and reducing air emissions. Last year, the Swedish furniture retail giant launched their Better Air Now initiative, which aimed to turn rice straw into a renewable material source to be used in their products.
In February the retailer opened up its leading sustainable store in Greenwich – the first full-sized Ikea store to open in London in 14 years. And earlier this year, we also saw the launch of Ikea’s sustainable TÄNKVÄRD collection, which explored a more planet-friendly way of using resources for the home.
This is all part of the brand’s sustainable strategy, which was launched back in 2012. It exists to have a positive impact with environmental protection and regeneration.