Most Yoga Mats Are Not Sustainable

Why Most Yoga Mats Are Not Sustainable and How to Choose a Eco-Friendly Alternative

In the world of yoga, mats are an essential element for daily practice. However, most yoga mats are not sustainable. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this problem and how to choose a sustainable yoga mat, as well as consider the advantages of natural rubber yoga mats.

The Sustainability Problem in Yoga Mats

The yoga industry faces a significant problem with the sustainability of its products. 70% of yoga mats are made from plastic materials like PVC, TPE, and PU, which are derived from petroleum. These materials are highly polluting and take more than 200 years to decompose, greatly contributing to the plastic waste crisis.

Additionally, 80% of these mats are produced in Asia, implying long transportation distances and a considerably high carbon footprint. Mass production in these regions, often with cheap labor and unsustainable practices, further aggravates the problem

Common Materials in Yoga Mats and Their Environmental Impact

1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): One of the most commonly used materials due to its durability and low cost. However, its production and decomposition are extremely harmful to the environment.
2. TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer): Although a more eco-friendly option than PVC, it is still a petroleum derivative and not fully biodegradable.
3. PU (Polyurethane): Used for its anti-slip properties, it also presents challenges in recyclability and degradation

The Solution: Sustainable Yoga Mats

Even mats that combine sustainable materials, like a natural rubber base with cork or eco-polyurethane surfaces, still have recycling issues and can take many years to fully decompose​

These mats are made from 99% natural and recycled rubber, a material that decomposes in less than 20 years. Produced locally in Spain, less than 500 kilometers away, these mats significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation

Advantages of Natural Rubber Yoga Mats

1. Biodegradability: Natural rubber mats decompose much faster than those made from plastic materials, reducing environmental impact.
2. Recyclability: Being mostly composed of natural and recycled rubber, these mats are easier to recycle.
3. Sustainable production: Manufacturing these mats locally not only reduces carbon emissions but also ensures fair labor conditions and the use of sustainable practices​
4. Ecological certifications: Mats like the ECO Daily come with OEKO-TEX® and FSC® certifications, ensuring their production meets ecological and ethical standards.

Promoting Conscious Consumption

Choosing a sustainable yoga mat not only benefits the environment but also supports a fairer and more responsible production model. By opting for mats made from natural rubber and produced locally, we contribute to reducing pollution and promoting more conscious consumption.

Sustainability in the yoga industry is an urgent challenge. However, with options like natural and recycled rubber yoga mats, we can make a significant difference. By making informed decisions and supporting brands committed to the environment, we can help transform the yoga industry into a more ecological and sustainable one.

For those interested in making a conscious purchase, consider natural rubber yoga mats as an investment in your well-being and the future of our planet.

• Global Yoga Mat Market Size by Material DOI: KBV-10476
• Degradation of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) by M. Čolnik - DOI: pr10101940
• Microbial Degradation of Rubber by A. Basik - DOI: polym13121989
• Study on Degradationof Natural Rubber by K. Wisetkhamsai -DOI: polym15041031Plastic
• Waste Degradation in Landfill by I. Wojnowska - DOI: ijerph192013223
• Degradation of Plastics in Simulated Landfill Conditions by Q. Xochitl - DOI: polym13071014
• Global Yoga Mat Market Size by Production - Report ID: QYR-21625038