After years of advocacy, Bali’s government partners with grassroots environmentalists to tackle plastic pollution from the source
A New Era for Bali’s Environment Begins
Denpasar, March 27, 2025 — Yesterday marked a turning point in Bali’s fight against plastic pollution. Environmental group Sungai Watch met with Bali Governor I Wayan Koster to align efforts toward an ambitious goal: cleaning up Bali by 2027 through village-level waste infrastructure and river protection.
The Governor, joined by Indonesia’s Minister of Environment and Forestry, reaffirmed that plastic pollution is now a national priority. The central strategy? Establishing comprehensive waste management systems in every Balinese village, supported by regulation, funding, and community engagement.
“This is not just an announcement—this is the beginning of systemic change. Bali must lead by example,”
— Governor I Wayan Koster
Grassroots Meets Government: Sungai Watch’s Role
Founded by environmental activists focused on cleaning rivers, Sungai Watch has been removing plastic from Bali’s waterways every single day for over four years. Despite their efforts, long-term change was elusive—until now.
“After years of daily cleanups and seeing the same pollution return, this feels like a true win for Bali. The difference this time? Government alignment,”
— Sungai Watch spokesperson
By combining their local expertise and data with government support, this partnership aims to move from reactive cleanup to preventative systems that stop plastic before it reaches the environment.
A Milestone for Bali’s Sustainability Journey
The meeting builds on Bali’s legacy of environmental leadership. Governor Koster has long championed anti-plastic regulations, starting with Governor Regulation No. 97/2018, which banned single-use plastics like plastic bags, straws, and styrofoam.
Now, new momentum is building with:
- Village-based waste management: Every desa (village) will be equipped with proper infrastructure by 2027.
- River monitoring and filtration systems: Scaling efforts pioneered by Sungai Watch to cover key watersheds.
- Education and enforcement: Engaging schools, markets, and traditional villages in plastic reduction.
Turning Promises Into Action
While this is a major policy win, implementation remains key. The stakeholders involved recognize that real impact will only come through sustained collaboration—between government agencies, NGOs, and local communities.
We will continue to follow this initiative closely, holding stakeholders accountable and highlighting both progress and challenges. As an advocate for sustainable living in Bali, we’re committed to ensuring this vision becomes reality.
Let the Work Begin
This new collaboration between Sungai Watch, Governor Koster, and the Ministry of Environment signals more than just policy—it’s a promise. A promise that Bali’s rivers, beaches, and villages will no longer be overrun by preventable plastic pollution.
The goal is bold. The timeline is tight. But for the first time, the pieces are finally in place.
Let the work begin.
