Mats play a vital role in enhancing your yoga practice, providing both comfort and stability. In this list, you’ll discover the top 7 sustainable yoga mats of 2025 carefully selected for their eco-friendly materials and durability. Choosing the right mat protects not only your joints but also the environment, reducing harmful waste and toxins. This review helps you make an informed decision, ensuring your yoga routine supports a healthier planet and complements your personal wellness journey.
Revolutionary Materials Reshaping Yoga Practice
As you explore the world of sustainable yoga mats, you’ll quickly discover that the materials used are at the heart of this evolutionary shift. Traditional mats often contain PVC and other non-renewable, synthetic compounds that not only harm the environment during production but also persist in landfills for centuries. By switching to revolutionary, eco-conscious materials, your practice can contribute positively to environmental stewardship. These innovative substances go beyond being mere alternatives; they offer enhanced durability, superior grip, and antimicrobial properties, all while drastically minimizing toxic chemical exposure for your body and the planet.
The development of sustainable yoga mats has sparked incredible advancements in material science. Companies are harnessing natural resources such as natural rubber, cork, and jute—each bringing unique qualities to your mat. For instance, natural rubber is not only biodegradable but also provides excellent cushion and traction, ideal for various styles of yoga practice. Cork, harvested sustainably without harming the tree, delivers a naturally antimicrobial and sweat-resistant surface, promoting hygiene during intense sessions. When you choose mats made from these materials, you are investing in something that supports your health and wellness in harmony with Earth’s ecosystems.
Moreover, the commitment to sustainability is pushing innovation even further with emerging composites and bio-based polymers. These revolutionary materials combine plant-derived oils and biodegradable fibers to create mats that break down more quickly after disposal than traditional plastics. The positive impact extends beyond the end of your mat’s life: reduced carbon emissions during production and minimized microplastic pollution. When you elevate your yoga practice with these thoughtfully engineered mats, you help drive a global movement toward greener, more responsible products that benefit both your personal well-being and the environment.
The Rise of Eco-Friendly Materials
Over the past decade, you’ve likely noticed an impressive surge in the availability of eco-friendly yoga mats, marking a significant departure from conventional synthetic options. The cause of this rise is twofold: deeper consumer environmental awareness and advancements in material technology. As you seek products that align with your values, manufacturing shifts reflect this demand by prioritizing renewable, non-toxic resources. Bamboo, cork, natural rubber, and organic cotton have become go-to options, each carefully selected to reduce your carbon footprint and exposure to harmful chemicals.
Eco-friendly materials don’t just win on sustainability; they enhance the tactile and health-related qualities of your yoga mat. For example, fabrics like organic cotton offer breathable comfort and the ability to absorb moisture without harboring bacteria, making your practice cleaner and safer. Cork’s natural texture ensures superior grip even when wet, reducing the risk of slips and injuries during complex poses. You benefit directly from these material properties that improve your performance and safety, all while staying true to environmentally mindful principles.
Furthermore, the supply chains supporting eco-friendly materials increasingly adhere to ethical labor and environmental standards, ensuring that the products you choose support fair work practices alongside sustainability. This growing transparent accountability means your purchasing decisions help promote social justice in addition to ecological welfare. When you buy an eco-friendly yoga mat, you’re not just making a personal health investment—you’re joining a wider community effort to regenerate the planet and uplift workers who play a vital role in crafting your mat.
Biodegradable vs. Recyclable: What’s the Difference?
When deciding on a sustainable yoga mat, you might come across terms like biodegradable and recyclable, which are sometimes confused yet signal different end-of-life paths for materials. Understanding the distinction is key to determining how your mat will impact the environment after you no longer use it. Biodegradable materials naturally break down through the action of microbes, returning to earth as organic matter without leaving persistent residues. This means your mat will degrade in compost or landfill settings, reducing long-term pollution but typically requiring specific conditions to do so effectively.
Recyclable mats, on the other hand, are designed so that their components can be reprocessed into new materials, helping to conserve resources and decrease landfill waste. However, not all recyclable mats are recycled in practice due to varying local recycling capabilities and the complexity of separating composite materials. This means you should check your region’s recycling policies and the manufacturer’s instructions before assuming your mat will be accepted by recycling programs. By choosing a mat that is either certified recyclable or has a take-back program, you actively participate in a circular economy where products have extended life spans beyond a single use.
The most important difference to keep in mind is that while biodegradable mats dissolve into natural elements, they may produce methane gas if decomposed improperly in landfills, which is a potent greenhouse gas. Conversely, recyclable mats can help conserve raw materials but rely on the existing recycling infrastructure, which can sometimes be inefficient or inaccessible. As you weigh your options, consider the total lifecycle of the mat—in terms of production, use, and disposal—to make a truly sustainable choice that aligns with both environmental protection and practical considerations for disposal.
To sum up, knowing the difference between biodegradable and recyclable is imperative for buying a yoga mat that matches your sustainability goals. Biodegradable mats offer the benefit of natural breakdown, but often with specific environmental requirements, whereas recyclable mats promote resource reuse but depend on your local recycling facilities. As a yogi interested in sustainability, you can look for mats that either combine both features or come from companies offering return and recycling programs, ensuring your purchase supports a complete and responsible product lifecycle.
The Top Contenders: Unveiling the Best Sustainable Yoga Mats
When you’re seeking a sustainable yoga mat, it’s clear that your choices go beyond simply picking a mat that looks good or fits your budget. The best sustainable yoga mats combine eco-friendly materials, innovative manufacturing processes, and superior performance to support both your practice and the planet. In 2025, the market offers an array of top contenders that stand out for their commitment to sustainability and user experience. These mats are crafted from renewable resources such as natural rubber, jute, organic cotton, and recycled materials, ensuring that each purchase reduces environmental impact without compromising on quality.
As you explore these options, you’ll find that the best sustainable mats are designed to excel in various aspects of your yoga routine—from excellent grip during the most challenging poses to enough cushioning for comfort and protection of your joints. Moreover, many brands emphasize non-toxic and biodegradable components, making their mats safe for your health and easy on the environment when their lifecycle ends. This dual focus on sustainability and functionality means you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other when selecting your next yoga mat.
Throughout this review, you’ll see how each top contender brings something unique to the table, whether it’s an innovative surface texture, enhanced durability, or an exceptionally soft feel underfoot. These mats have undergone rigorous testing and customer feedback analysis to ensure that they meet the demands of both passionate yogis and beginners alike. With so many impressive options available, you’re empowered to choose a mat that fits your style, practice intensity, and environmental values—the best way to support both your wellness journey and the planet.
Detailed Features of Each Mat
When you examine the detailed features of each sustainable yoga mat, you begin to appreciate the thoughtful engineering and design elements that differentiate them. Some mats utilize natural rubber sourced from responsibly managed forests, giving you a surface that’s both grippy and biodegradable. Others integrate organic cotton or jute layers, creating a unique texture that enhances breathability and sweat absorption during your practice. These natural fibers also lend a lightweight yet durable profile, making your mat easy to carry and long-lasting through frequent use.
Beyond the choice of materials, you will notice that many top mats incorporate non-toxic adhesives and dyes, ensuring that your skin contact remains free from harmful chemicals. This attention to detail supports your overall health while keeping manufacturing footprints low. Additionally, some mats feature reversible sides—one designed for superior grip and stability, and the other for gentle cushioning and soothing support. This dual-functionality allows you to tailor your practice environment to your evolving needs, whether it’s a vigorous vinyasa or a restorative yin session.
Another thoughtful feature you will appreciate is the durability combined with ease of maintenance. Several mats are naturally antimicrobial or treated with plant-based solutions to prevent odors and bacterial build-up, so they stay fresh even after intense sweat sessions. Their resistant surfaces also simplify cleaning since harsh chemicals can be avoided. These features mean you will spend less time on upkeep and more time focusing on your poses, confident that your mat remains supportive and hygienic through every session.
Performance Metrics: Grip, Durability, and Comfort
Understanding the performance metrics of grip, durability, and comfort is key to selecting a sustainable yoga mat that truly supports your practice. Grip, in particular, ensures that your hands and feet stay firmly planted during all movements, preventing slips and injuries. Sustainable mats made from natural rubber typically deliver an exceptional grip, especially when slightly moistened by sweat, giving you added stability. If you’re practicing in humid environments, this feature will be especially beneficial, helping you maintain confidence in every pose.
Durability is another core consideration. A mat that wears out quickly not only costs you more over time but also contributes to waste, which counters the principles of sustainability you value. Many of the leading mats are designed to withstand years of continuous use without degrading or losing their structural integrity. Their materials resist tearing and compressing under pressure, maintaining consistent thickness and support. This longevity means you’ll avoid frequent replacements, which is better for both your budget and the environment.
Comfort plays a significant role in the overall enjoyment and effectiveness of your yoga sessions. The best sustainable mats offer enough cushioning to protect your joints from hard floors, yet remain firm enough to give you proper alignment feedback. Some mats incorporate layered constructions that balance softness and support seamlessly. These design aspects allow you to fully immerse in your practice without discomfort or distraction, making a noticeable difference whether you’re in a meditative pose or holding a challenging balance.
When evaluating your options, placing equal weight on grip, durability, and comfort will help you identify a sustainable yoga mat that enhances every aspect of your routine. Exceptional grip keeps you safe and steady, superior durability saves resources and money, and thoughtful cushioning ensures your physical well-being. By choosing a mat that excels across these performance metrics, you invest in a product that respects both your body and the environment, empowering you to practice with confidence and conscience.
Real-World Feedback: User Experiences and Ratings
When you consider purchasing one of the best sustainable yoga mats in 2025, real-world feedback is invaluable. This feedback provides insights beyond manufacturer claims and marketing hype. Users share their honest experiences regarding durability, comfort, grip, and environmental impact, helping you to make an informed decision. Many yogis appreciate sustainable mats that maintain performance without compromising eco-friendliness. You will notice certain mats consistently praised for their balance of firm support and cushioning, which significantly enhances your practice, whether you’re tackling beginner poses or advanced inversions.
Furthermore, user ratings often highlight specific qualities such as slip resistance when sweaty or the mat’s ability to hold up after extensive use. It’s important for you to note patterns in feedback, such as whether multiple users mention odors from new mats or any fading of material after washing. You’ll also find useful comments on the size and thickness that align with different body types and yoga styles, from restorative to power yoga. The continued positive reviews about biodegradable mats reflect a growing consciousness among practitioners like you who want to minimize ecological footprints while enjoying their practice.
Additionally, you may encounter mentions of post-purchase customer service and brand responsiveness, which directly affect your overall satisfaction. Many users emphasize that a company’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the product itself to include packaging, shipping methods, and transparency. When choosing your sustainable yoga mat, you should weigh these comprehensive aspects since they contribute to a product’s real-life value and long-term sustainability credentials. Ultimately, these firsthand experiences and ratings empower you to select a mat that complements both your yoga routine and your environmental values.
Analyzing Customer Reviews
Diving deeper into customer reviews reveals subtle yet vital differences between top contenders in the sustainable yoga mat market of 2025. You’ll see that buyers consistently value mats made from natural or recycled materials, such as natural rubber, jute, or cork, because they align with ecological principles and tend to perform better in grip and durability. However, some users also point out concerns regarding the scent of natural materials upon first use, advising you to allow proper airing out before your practice to avoid distraction.
Reviews also highlight how texture and thickness impact user experience. Many practitioners mention that a mat with a textured surface can significantly reduce risks associated with slipping during demanding sequences. You should look for designs that provide firm traction under varying levels of humidity and sweat. Moreover, the thickness directly affects joint comfort—for instance, those with sensitive knees frequently prefer mats with extra cushioning, whereas more advanced yogis might opt for a thinner, more connected-to-the-floor feel. The heterogeneity of reviews signals that you must consider your specific needs and preferences when reading through feedback.
Another trend gleaned from comments is about overall value for money. Sustainable yoga mats often come at a premium price, but users frequently emphasize that investing in a high-quality, eco-friendly mat pays off in long-term performance and satisfaction. Some negative reviews cite mats that deteriorated quickly or lost grip, serving as warnings for you to avoid cheaper alternatives that sacrifice environmental benefits for cost savings. The reliability reflected in customer ratings coupled with the ethical practices of manufacturers offers you confidence in selecting mats that really stand the test of time and practice intensity.
Expert Recommendations and Testing Results
Expert evaluations complement user feedback by applying rigorous testing methods to substantiate claims made by manufacturers and customers alike. When you review the 2025 crop of sustainable yoga mats, experts analyze parameters such as tear resistance, elasticity, moisture absorption, and biodegradability rates. These tests reveal which mats achieve a fine balance of comfort and durability without compromising sustainable sourcing. For instance, certain natural rubber mats demonstrate impressive resistance to wear and maintain consistent grip performance under a variety of conditions, which experts have verified as important for injury prevention during vigorous sessions.
Additionally, professional testers often pay close attention to the mats’ environmental certifications and compliance with international sustainability standards. Your choice gains reassurance when experts confirm low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and responsibly sourced materials free from synthetic additives. You should also appreciate that some mats undergo life cycle assessments showing minimal ecological footprints from production to disposal, aligning with your desire for ethical consumption. Expert insights can therefore guide you toward options that pair performance excellence with genuine environmental stewardship.
Experts also consider user ergonomics, evaluating how design features like alignment markers, non-slip backing, and reversible surfaces enhance the overall yoga experience. When you see experts recommending a particular mat based on their hands-on trials and analytical data, it bolsters your confidence that the mat will support your practice safely and effectively. These comprehensive testing results complement customer insights to provide a well-rounded understanding of what to expect from each mat on the market.
For those who want to explore further, expert panels and independent laboratories often publish detailed test reports and comparative rankings, factoring in durability under stress, eco-certifications, and practical usability. You can access these resources to better understand how featured mats perform long-term and which ones truly meet the demanding criteria for sustainability combined with functionality. Such informed guidance helps you confidently select a mat that not only benefits your practice but also contributes positively to the planet.
Comparative Analysis: Value for Money vs. Eco-Impact
When choosing the perfect sustainable yoga mat, one of the most important aspects you’ll want to consider is the balance between value for money and the environmental impact. It’s easy to get caught up in the price tag alone, but understanding what contributes to the cost and how those choices affect the planet will empower you to make an informed decision. Some mats may seem expensive at first glance, but their durability and eco-friendly materials could mean a better long-term investment both for your practice and for sustainability.
In contrast, lower-priced mats often cut corners either in quality or in sustainable manufacturing processes, which can have negative consequences on your experience and the environment. Therefore, dissecting what you’re paying for and identifying which features align with your values will help clarify your options. Ultimately, you’re looking for a mat that offers excellent performance without compromising the earth’s resources.
To facilitate this understanding, the following comparison breaks down eco-impact factors against monetary value to highlight which mats offer the best symbiosis of price and sustainability. As you weigh your choices, you’ll find that appreciating both aspects simultaneously leads to smarter purchases that benefit you now and for years to come.
| Value for Money | Eco-Impact |
|---|---|
| Initial purchase price and long-term durability | Materials sourced (organic, recycled, biodegradable) |
| Comfort and performance features improving yoga practice | Manufacturing processes and certifications (e.g., low emissions, fair trade) |
| Warranty and brand reputation for quality assurance | End-of-life disposal options (recyclability, compostability) |
Cost Breakdown of Each Yoga Mat
When analyzing the cost of each yoga mat, it’s important to go beyond the sticker price. You’ll discover that a significant portion of the expense often accounts for specialized eco-friendly materials that don’t degrade into harmful toxins. For example, mats made from natural rubber or cork may carry a higher upfront cost due to sustainable harvesting practices but offer superior biodegradability compared to synthetic alternatives. This means that while you initially pay more, you contribute less to landfill waste in the long run.
Additionally, labor practices and manufacturing ethics influence pricing. Brands committed to fair wages and safer factory conditions generally price their products higher, reflecting their investment in ethical production. This ensures that your purchase supports communities and reduces environmental exploitation. Thus, you can view your spending as an investment in a product that aligns with your values and supports positive industry standards.
Furthermore, some yoga mats include thoughtful design features like enhanced grip or added cushioning that improve your practice’s quality and longevity. These improvements might slightly raise the cost but often mean you won’t need to replace your mat as frequently, saving money over time. Incorporating your lifestyle needs with these factors allows you to gauge which mat optimizes your spending while advancing sustainability.
Balancing Quality and Sustainability
Striking the right balance between quality and sustainability can be challenging, but it’s important for maximizing both your yoga experience and your environmental contribution. High-quality mats crafted with sustainable materials often require innovation and precise craftsmanship, pushing brands to develop products that don’t sacrifice performance for eco-friendliness. This is where your priorities come into play; selecting a mat that feels good during your practice and aligns with your commitment to the planet inevitably enhances your satisfaction and mindfulness.
It’s important to understand that sustainability isn’t just a marketing label—it reflects a genuine reduction of environmental harm in sourcing, production, and disposal. When you choose a mat with validated certifications or transparent supply chains, you’re rewarding companies that invest in responsible stewardship. However, some mats may achieve eco-impact goals by using recycled materials but fall short in durability, while others excel in craftsmanship but have a moderate footprint due to material choices. Carefully evaluating these trade-offs will guide you to products that deliver on both fronts.
In this respect, being informed about the materials, production processes, and lifecycle of each mat enables you to assess whether you are getting the quality you deserve for a positive ecological imprint. The ideal option supports your yoga journey gracefully while honoring planetary boundaries, reflecting a thoughtful approach to what you bring into your practice space.
Exploring the delicate interplay between quality and sustainability deepens your ability to choose products that not only perform exceptionally but also foster a healthier world. By integrating this knowledge into your selection process, you invest in a yoga mat that stands the test of time and conscience.
Transitioning to a Sustainable Practice: Tips for Yogis
As you initiate on your journey towards a more environmentally friendly yoga routine, the switch to sustainable yoga mats marks a significant first step. These mats, crafted from eco-conscious materials like natural rubber, jute, or recycled fabrics, not only reduce your carbon footprint but also support your body during practice with enhanced grip and comfort. Incorporating a sustainable mat into your daily session means you are investing in both your personal wellness and the health of the planet. To deepen this commitment, consider integrating mindful consumption habits such as purchasing from brands that prioritize ethical manufacturing or using products that have minimal packaging.
Your sustainable yoga lifestyle can be further enriched by adopting a holistic approach that extends beyond your mat choice. This includes using biodegradable cleaning solutions to maintain your yoga mat, which limits harmful chemicals from entering waterways. Additionally, you might want to explore yoga apparel made from organic cotton or bamboo, which provide breathability and durability while caring for the environment. These small changes embody the essence of yoga — a harmonious balance between body, mind, and Earth.
Transitioning towards a sustainable practice is not just an individual effort but a movement that you contribute to by setting an example within your community. Sharing your experiences with like-minded yogis at studios, workshops, or online platforms can amplify the positive impact, encouraging others to make eco-friendly choices. Recognizing the ripple effect of conscious decisions, you play a vital role in fostering a culture of sustainability within the yoga world and beyond.
How to Choose the Right Mat for Your Practice
When identifying a sustainable yoga mat, you should start by assessing your personal practice style and preferences. Reflect on the type of yoga you typically do—whether it’s Vinyasa with dynamic flows or Yin with longer holds—as this will influence the thickness, texture, and density of the mat you need. A thicker mat with extra cushioning might be ideal for practices involving more floor work, providing joint support and comfort, while a thinner, grippier mat could be better for stability and balance during standing poses.
Your environmental values should guide the material choice of your yoga mat. Opt for mats made from natural or recycled materials, such as natural rubber, cork, or organic jute, which limit ecological harm and reduce exposure to potentially toxic chemicals often found in synthetic mats. Beyond the environmental aspects, consider the mat’s durability and ease of maintenance to ensure it can withstand your routine and remain hygienic over time. This holistic approach guarantees that your mat aligns both with your physical needs and ethical standards.
Another factor to weigh when choosing your sustainable mat is the grip and texture that best supports your practice. Different textures provide varying levels of traction, helping you stay grounded in challenging poses and transitions. Many sustainable mats offer surfaces that become even grippier with moisture, perfect for sweaty sessions, while others have a smooth finish for a gentle feel. Evaluating these characteristics in relation to your practice intensity and style ensures you invest in a mat that enhances performance and comfort simultaneously.
Additional Sustainable Yoga Accessories Worth Considering
Expanding your sustainable yoga toolkit beyond the mat can elevate your entire practice and deepen your commitment to eco-conscious living. Items such as yoga blocks, straps, and bolsters made from sustainable materials like cork, natural wood, or organic cotton not only provide imperative support and alignment but also reduce reliance on plastic-based accessories. These eco-friendly props are designed to withstand regular use while minimizing environmental impact, enabling you to maintain a healthy body and planet simultaneously.
In addition to imperative props, consider incorporating sustainable yoga towels made from bamboo or organic cotton, which are biodegradable and highly absorbent. Such towels keep your practice hygienic, especially in heated yoga sessions, while aligning with your green lifestyle ethos. Furthermore, you might explore meditation cushions crafted from natural materials to enhance comfort during seated practices without compromising sustainability.
Finally, accessories like refillable water bottles crafted from stainless steel or glass complement your sustainable yoga routine. Staying hydrated is a key aspect of any physical regimen, and choosing eco-friendly hydration options decreases single-use plastic waste. Merging functionality with environmental responsibility in your accessory selection enables you to live the principles of yoga both on and off the mat.
For yogis dedicated to nurturing both their body and the environment, choosing additional sustainable yoga accessories offers a meaningful way to enhance your practice. These carefully selected props, towels, and hydration options not only support your physical needs but also embody your commitment to sustainability, creating a practice space that reflects awareness and care for the planet.
Summing up
So, when you’re exploring the top best sustainable yoga mats of 2025, you’ll find options that not only support your yoga practice but also contribute positively to the environment. Each mat in this detailed review has been selected based on environmentally friendly materials, durability, and overall performance, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on quality or your commitment to sustainability. By choosing one of these mats, you’re directly supporting brands that prioritize eco-conscious manufacturing processes and use natural or recycled materials, making your practice greener from the ground up.
Your choice of a sustainable yoga mat can greatly enhance your yoga experience by providing the right balance of comfort, grip, and support, while simultaneously reducing your ecological footprint. This review offers you clear insights into the unique features and benefits of each mat, helping you identify which product aligns best with your personal needs and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just starting out, investing in a mat that reflects your values can deepen your connection to both the practice and the planet.
Ultimately, selecting a sustainable yoga mat means you’re contributing to a larger movement toward responsible consumerism and environmental stewardship. With a growing number of eco-friendly options available in 2025, you now have the opportunity to make informed decisions that honor both your health and the health of the planet. Using one of these recommended mats empowers you to step onto your mat with confidence, knowing that your choice supports a sustainable future while enhancing your journey on and off the mat.
FAQ
Q: What materials are commonly used in sustainable yoga mats reviewed in 2025?
A: Sustainable yoga mats in 2025 are typically made from eco-friendly materials such as natural rubber, cork, jute, and plant-based thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). These materials help reduce environmental impact and are often biodegradable or recyclable.
Q: How do sustainable yoga mats compare in durability to traditional mats?
A: Many sustainable yoga mats are comparable in durability to traditional PVC mats. Natural rubber and cork mats, for instance, provide good longevity and resilience, especially when cared for properly. However, some sustainable materials might require more gentle cleaning methods to maintain their lifespan.
Q: Are sustainable yoga mats suitable for all types of yoga practices?
A: Yes, most sustainable yoga mats reviewed in 2025 are designed to support a range of yoga styles. From gentle Hatha yoga to more intense Vinyasa or Ashtanga practices, these mats offer adequate grip, cushioning, and stability tailored to various needs.
Q: What factors were considered in selecting the top 7 sustainable yoga mats for 2025?
A: The selection process looked at eco-friendly materials, durability, grip performance, comfort, design, brand ethics, and price. User feedback and certifications such as OEKO-TEX or FSC were also important in determining the best options.
Q: How do I maintain and clean a sustainable yoga mat without damaging it?
A: Cleaning methods vary depending on the material; for natural rubber or cork mats, it’s best to use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth or sponge, avoiding harsh chemicals or excessive soaking. Air drying away from direct sunlight helps preserve the mat’s integrity.
Q: Can sustainable yoga mats be recycled or composted at the end of their life?
A: Many sustainable yoga mats made from natural or biodegradable materials can be composted in appropriate conditions. Some brands also offer recycling programs. However, mats containing synthetic components may require special disposal methods depending on local recycling facilities.
Q: Are sustainable yoga mats more expensive than conventional yoga mats?
A: Sustainable yoga mats can be priced higher than some conventional mats due to the cost of eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices. However, many users find that the investment is worthwhile for the environmental benefits and quality they receive.
