IKEA also said that in addition to the $280,000, it will also continue to contribute a portion of its annual Christmas tree sales to its environmental partner. The trees are now available for $20 at all Canadian outlets.

"Environmental sustainability continues to be anchored in everything we do at IKEA," IKEA Canada president Kerri Molinaro said in a statement. "It is clear that our customers take great pride in supporting IKEA Canada's commitment to responsible retailing."

The funds raised from the Bag the Bag campaign will be re-invested into IKEA Canada's annual partnership program with Tree Canada, Pick a Tree Plant a Tree. To date, the program has contributed to planting more than 14,000 trees across Canada solely from IKEA Christmas Tree sales.

The additional funds will allow IKEA co-workers to plant a larger variety of trees, provide better maintenance such as mulch and tree guards that will improve tree survival.

"IKEA's donation to Tree Canada will be used over the next five years, taking us into our 18th year working together," Tree Canada president Mike Rosen said. "This generous donation will also be used towards our re-branding efforts and educational and carbon offset research."

Tree Canada is a not-for-profit organization established to encourage Canadians to plant and care for trees in urban and rural environments. More information about the organization is available on its web site at www.treecanada.ca.