IKEA has announced a new reforestation and conservation initiative in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest biome, one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world. The project will focus on conserving, restoring and reforesting around 4,000 hectares of degraded or low-productivity pastureland in the states of Paraná and Santa Catarina. The effort will test a scalable model that could inform IKEA’s future climate investments.
Ulf Johansson, Global Head of Raw Materials at Inter IKEA Group, said: “As a major user of wood, we recognise our responsibility and strive to lead by example in responsible forest management — extending our efforts beyond the materials we source. This project explores how reforestation, restoration and responsible forestry can mitigate climate change by capturing and storing carbon in land, plants and, ultimately, products. We aim to show that productive forestry, conservation and restoration can not only coexist, but thrive together.”
Inter IKEA Group is partnering with BTG Pactual Timberland Investment Group (TIG), one of the world’s largest timberland managers and a leader in sustainable forest management. BTG Pactual TIG will oversee the design and implementation of the programme, drawing on its experience in large-scale restoration and reforestation projects in Brazil to deliver measurable climate, biodiversity and economic benefits.
Gerrity Lansing, Head of BTG Pactual TIG, said: “We appreciate Inter IKEA Group’s leadership in investing in the protection, restoration and responsible management of forests in this critical biome. This collaboration reflects the kind of corporate action the world needs — one that balances climate impact, biodiversity protection and long-term community benefits.”
The Atlantic Forest, of which only about 13% remains intact, will see portions of the project area dedicated to the restoration of natural forests and habitats. Other sections will be managed for sustainable pine plantations and improved forest stewardship, with the goal of achieving Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC) certification.
The commercial pine operations will generate employment and economic activity for nearby communities while supporting environmental restoration. To ensure transparency, the project’s carbon capture, biodiversity outcomes, and social and ecological impacts will be continuously monitored and independently verified.
An advisory panel comprising experts from global and local NGOs will guide the project, helping to set impact metrics, foster academic partnerships, and strengthen community engagement.
Miriam Prochnow, Co-founder of Apremavi, commented: “The careful planning of business activities in these territories is essential. With the impacts of climate change becoming increasingly visible, we welcome this partnership with IKEA, particularly for its focus on biodiversity and water conservation.”
