Bali takes action to reduce plastic waste
Bali is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. The island is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture and friendly people. However, Bali also faces serious challenges, one of which is plastic waste.
In 2021, Bali will generate approximately 915,500 tons of waste, 51.5% of which will be plastic waste. This plastic waste not only creates aesthetic problems, but also has a negative impact on the environment, health and economy.
Plastic debris can pollute oceans and rivers, endangering marine life and damaging ecosystems. Plastic waste can also be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other disease-carrying insects. Plastic litter can also cause damage to infrastructure and public facilities.
Bali has taken steps to address the problem of plastic waste. In 2019, the Bali government issued Governor’s Regulation No. 97/2018 on limiting the generation of single-use plastic waste. This regulation bans the use of single-use plastic bags, plastic straws, and polystyrene foam.
In addition, the Bali government has worked with various stakeholders to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. The Bali government has also built waste management facilities such as Integrated Waste Management Sites (TPST) and waste banks.
Here are some of the efforts Bali is making to tackle the plastic waste problem:
- Banning single-use plastic
- Increased public awareness
- Building waste processing facilities
- Developing a circular economy
These efforts have yielded positive results. By 2022, the amount of plastic waste generated in Bali has been reduced to 870,000 tons. However, there is still much to be done to address Bali’s plastic waste problem.
The role of tourists
Travelers also have an important role to play in addressing Bali’s plastic waste problem. Travelers can reduce the use of single-use plastics by bringing their own shopping bags, refusing plastic straws, and reducing the use of plastic packaging. Travelers can also support local businesses that use environmentally friendly packaging.
With the cooperation of all parties, Bali can overcome the plastic waste problem and have a positive impact on its environment.