If you have been to Bali, you would probably know what a stunning island it is. Also known as paradise island to some, it has always been well known for its picturesque scenery, delicious food and warm-hearted locals that would offer assistance to you anytime. If you have never been to Bali, I am sure a picture speak a thousand words..
However, sorry to burst your bubble, this gorgeous beach that you’re looking at now, just like the other beaches in Bali, may be destroyed by the presence of rubbish soon.
In 2015, Indonesia is the fifth fastest growing economy in 2015. The amazing progress of the economic growth and rise in population number has increased the growth consumption (and waste) which also resulted in the lack of development of public services, leading to the common sight of rubbish littered all around the streets and waterways.
Around 10 000 cubic meters of garbage (12 percent of plastic waste, 17 percent of inorganic waste and 71 percent of organic waste) is produced every day in Bali. The horrifying part is due to the lack of public services, 50 percent of this mountain of waste is left neglected and being thrown onto the roads, in open dumps and rivers that eventually lead them into the ocean! At this rate.. one day we might be surfing in a sea filled with plastic bags…. left over food…. dead fish…. plastic bottles and more. Waste mismanagement is a serious issue that can potentially result in health issues due to the ecological damage such as soil and water contamination. Adding on with the fact that plastic takes 500 years to decompose which is a timespan of 6 generations…. Definitely make this situation worse.
So, why should you be concerned? According to a general study, while a local produces around 0.5 kg of garbage per day, a tourist produces around 2 to 5 kg of garbage daily. If all travellers play a part in reducing rubbish, we can create noticeable impact to the waste issues in Bali.
Being in the tourism industry – which is strongly dependent on Bali’s natural assets such as the amazing beaches, rice fields and more – Villa-Bali.com, the leader of villa rentals industry in Bali, has decided to step forward and make a change to give back to this beautiful island that has brought our clients endless of unforgettable memories. By launching the GECO project which consists of implementing small actions that can be easily integrated in villas, Villa-Bali.com hopes to raise awareness and create a ripple effect of more people being involved in Bali environmental issues.
Under GECO project, villas are required to set up a waste management system and send their staff for training to learn about proper waste sorting. Villas staff will also be provided reusable bags from us so as to replace the use of plastic bags. In addition to these, Villa-Bali.com has created an eco-friendly checklist for any interested villa owners to follow and collated the green companies in Bali to form a green directory so as to provid clear direction and guidance to any villa owners, residents and businessess that may be keen in going green.
It is a small step but every step counts and we hope that you will join and walk with us on this journey.