Recycled Mats, Sumatra Reforestation, and Conscious Living: In Conversation with Leah Whitty

“The important thing to remember is that we’re all capable of doing our own bit, big or small. It’s crucial to just be conscious of our environment – there’s something each of us can contribute in our own way.” – Leah Whitty

As the founder of Palms In The Wild and a holistic coach, Leah Whitty approaches sustainability through the lens of harmony, mindfulness, and circular design. By turning post-consumer recycled plastic into high-performance microfiber suede yoga mats, Leah ensures that existing waste is given a second life rather than ending up in marine environments.

We spoke with Leah about circular product design, partnering with global reforestation projects, and how collective action can drive real ocean health.

---

Snapshot Profile

• Name: Leah Whitty
• Role: Founder & Owner at Palms In The Wild | Transformational Coach
• Specialism: Recycled Microfiber Suede Gear, Conscious Business, & Reforestation Partnerships
• Impact Partner: One Tree Planted (Sumatra, Indonesia Palm Replanting Project)

---

The Interview

Why is conserving and protecting the oceans so personal to you?

Leah: Now is the perfect time to be giving back to this wonderful planet. Humans have taken what they need from the Earth for a very long time, but there’s a growing awareness of how we must live in harmony with nature.

For me, conserving our environment – including our oceans, forests, and natural wonders – was an essential, non-negotiable component of building my business. We have to ensure we protect these spaces and live more sustainably.

---

How is Palms In The Wild creating products that are better for the planet?

Leah: Everything we do has an impact, so I specifically chose to make our yoga mats out of recycled plastics engineered into a microfiber suede.

I believe all waste can be given a new lease of life rather than being disposed of after a single use. It’s great knowing that no new virgin waste is created through our production. Furthermore, Palms In The Wild partners with One Tree Planted to fund a dedicated replanting project in Sumatra, Indonesia, planting new palm trees for every mat sold.

---

What do you think the surfing industry specifically can do to support ocean health?

Leah: We need to work as a team to accelerate the progress we want to achieve.

Building strong partnerships with ocean conservation projects and charities is a powerful way to spread awareness, rally new supporters through events and sponsorships, and inspire people to respect the ocean environment.

---

Leah’s Recommendations & Inspiration

Organizations & Creators Making an Impact

• One Tree Planted (@OneTreePlanted): An inspiring organization with massive global ambitions, bringing communities together for a tree-planting revolution.
• That Wild Feeling (@thatwildfeeling): Sea-inspired art, jewelry, and homeware crafting beauty with purpose.

---

Final Thought

Leah: “We are all capable of doing our bit, whether big or small. Be conscious of your environment and contribute in your own unique way – it all matters.”