FINALLY! If you’ve been to Bali’s beaches in the last few years you know just how desperately the island needed to take serious action in regards to plastic pollution. Videos like this one taken by British diver Rich Horner off the coast of Manta Point in Nusa Penida show just how dire the situation had become.
Then on January 1, 2019, Rai Mantra, the Mayor of Denpasar announced that Bali’s capital would ban single-use plastic bags in supermarkets, convenience stores and shopping centers by June. 23. During our time in Bali we noticed that many of the stores and restaurants had already adopted the plastic ban and had created sustainable packaging from banana leaves, paper and cardboard.
Looking to go plastic free in Bali? Check out these great organizations:
- Zero Waste Bali – Bring your re-usable containers to load up on bulk items, purchase plastic free razors, toothbrushes and toiletries, plus other local goodies.
- Avani Eco – Biodegradable and composite ponchos, bags. storage container and more.
- The Plastic Bank – This Canadian company has created a system which alleviates poverty and collects plastic.
- Bye Bye Plastic Bags – Two Balinese sisters and trailblazers who begai raising awareness about plastic in Bali when they were just 10 and 12 years old.
- 4oceanBali – Cleaning the ocean and coastlines, one pound at a time.
I know there is many more environmental groups in Bali – please post your favorites in the comments below.
Live Your Green Life