IKEA has introduced a new way to reduce air pollution in the home with a curtain that breaks down air pollutants when it makes contact with light.
The GUNRID air purifying curtain uses a unique technology developed by IKEA and the process is activated by outdoor and indoor light. Coated with a photocatalyst mineral layer, the curtains work in a similar way to photosynthesis.
Lena Pripp-Kovac, head of Sustainability at Inter IKEA Group, says: “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. GUNRID is the first product to use the technology, but the development will give us opportunities for future applications on other textiles.”
IKEA has been working on reducing air pollution for many years by phasing out hazardous chemicals and reducing air emissions from its own operations. The company is now extending its commitment by looking at products that can purify indoor air too.
“For me, it’s important to work on products that solve actual problems and are relevant to people. 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,” comments Mauricio Affonso, product developer at IKEA Range & Supply.
The GUNRID air purifying curtain will be available in IKEA stores next year.