Cleaning Up for a Sustainable Future

01/07/2025 00:04

As Bali welcomes the return of global tourists, the island faces a growing challenge: managing the increasing plastic waste that threatens its natural beauty. In response, Bali’s government, private sector, and local communities have launched a variety of initiatives to clean up the island and promote long-term environmental sustainability.

Beach and River Clean-Ups

Throughout 2025, Bali has intensified its beach and river clean-up movements. Thousands of volunteers, including local villagers, students, and tourism workers, have participated in regular clean-up activities. In just one week earlier this year, more than 25 tons of waste were removed from popular beaches such as Kuta, Jimbaran, and Kedonganan. These community-led efforts demonstrate how collective action can have a powerful impact on the environment.

In addition to coastal clean-ups, several organizations have focused on removing plastic waste from Bali’s rivers before it reaches the ocean. In northern areas like Beratan Lake, dedicated teams have successfully collected over eight tons of plastic in just a few months. Across the island, river barrier systems are being installed to prevent more plastic from flowing downstream.

Waste Management and Recycling Innovation

Beyond clean-ups, Bali is addressing waste management through better infrastructure. New waste sorting facilities have been built to separate organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable waste efficiently. These facilities play a key role in reducing landfill pressure and improving recycling rates.

The island is also seeing a rise in creative recycling initiatives. Local schools have begun teaching zero-waste principles, encouraging students to sort their trash and avoid using single-use plastics. Several innovative businesses now turn recycled plastic into useful products like furniture, contributing to the development of Bali’s circular economy.

Stronger Waste Regulations

In April 2025, Bali’s government introduced strict new rules banning the production and sale of single-use plastic water bottles under one liter. This policy complements earlier bans on plastic bags, straws, and styrofoam, which were introduced several years ago. New regulations also require mandatory waste separation in schools, markets, and places of worship. These measures aim to reduce plastic consumption and promote more responsible waste disposal.

Village-Led Zero Waste Movements

Many local villages in Bali are taking the lead in developing zero-waste models. In Gianyar, for example, community programs have successfully established composting systems that transform organic waste into natural fertilizer. These programs not only reduce environmental pollution but also support local farmers and promote sustainable agriculture.

Villages across the island are showing that small, community-driven solutions can significantly contribute to Bali’s broader waste management goals.

Challenges and Future Steps

Despite impressive progress, Bali still faces significant challenges. Waste collection systems in some areas remain underdeveloped, recycling capacity is limited, and enforcement of environmental regulations is not always consistent. Seasonal surges of waste during peak tourist months also put extra strain on Bali’s waste infrastructure.

Even so, Bali is moving in the right direction. Through a combination of government policies, community action, and educational programs, the island is working hard to build a cleaner, more sustainable future. By continuing to invest in waste management and encouraging responsible tourism, Bali has the potential to become a global leader in eco-friendly tourism.