Sustainable Endings: What to Do with Your Cork Yoga Mat When It Reaches the End of Its Life
We are very proud of our Cork Yoga Range. Made from 100% eco-friendly cork harvested from cork trees, these mats are a sustainable and non-toxic choice for yogis who care about the environment. Many yoga mats on the market are made from plastic and contain harmful phthalates. Phthalates are a chemical is used to make PVC flexible, but it has been shown to leach out of materials when exposed to heat, making it a particular problem for anyone doing hot / Bikram yoga. Phthalates can attach to dust and are then breathed in. This is why cork is such a good choice for a yoga mat as there is no PVC, TPE, silicone, glue or phthalates. It's also a sustainable material. Cork is harvested from bark stripped from the cork tree. Cork trees require relatively low resources to grow and the bark regenerates and can be harvested again in 9 years.
As we are committed to reducing our ecological footprint, we understand the importance of responsibly disposing of products once they've reached the end of their life. Here are some ideas of what you can do with your cork yoga mat when it's time to bid farewell.
- Composting Your Cork Yoga Mat:
One of the most eco-friendly ways to bid adieu to your cork yoga mat is by composting. Since our mats are made from 100% biodegradable products, you can add them to your compost bin. Cork, being a natural material, will decompose over time. However, it's important to note that the natural rubber used in the mats takes a bit longer to break down. We suggest cutting your mat up into small pieces to help speed up the process. The print is a natural dye and there isn't any glue used in our mats, just heat so there aren't any nasties that will hurt your compost. Alternatively, if you don't have a compost, you can look for a community compost or you could bury them in your garden. Again, we would suggest cutting them up to aid the process.
- Upcycling Projects:
Get creative with upcycling projects! If you're the crafty type, consider repurposing your old cork yoga mat into various DIY projects. Cut it into coasters, placemats, or even use it as a protective layer for your gardening tools or shelving. The possibilities are endless, and you'll not only be reducing waste but also giving your beloved yoga mat a second life.
- Check for Recycling Programs:
While cork is a natural material - it may not be accepted in recycling or green bins, it's worth checking with your local council about what is allowed. Your local council may have a recycling program in your area that accept cork products.
- Donate or Share:
If your cork yoga mat is still in decent condition, consider donating it to local community centres, schools, or yoga studios. Sharing the love for sustainable products not only extends the life of the mat but also promotes eco-conscious living within your community.
As you bid farewell to your well-loved cork yoga mat, remember that every small effort counts toward a more sustainable future. Whether it's composting, upcycling, recycling, or donating, your conscious choice at the end of your mat's life contributes to a circular economy and a healthier planet.
We hope this helps when it's time to part ways with your cork yoga mat. Namaste!