Bali attracts millions of tourists every month, drawn to its pristine island life. However, with the title of one of the most sought after travel destination in the world it has also become victim to rampant plastic pollution. The beauty of Bali is marred by the sight of plastic waste littering its shores and landscapes. All this is a significant threat to its environment and marine life.
But if you really care, it is easy to travel in Bali without contributing to plastic pollution. For a thoughtful traveler, you don’t even need to take drastic steps or make significant sacrifices to make a positive impact. In this blog, I will share some simple ways to enjoy a plastic-free travel experience in Bali.
Just see this video to understand the level of problem.
Plastic Pollution in Bali
Bali was once a pristine island, but its popularity as a budget backpacking destination has led to a surge in tourism. This single change is responsible for bringing a wave of plastic pollution to the island. During my visit last year, I had interviewed some individuals. They were working with groups that were dedicated to making Bali plastic-free and improving the state of its coral reefs. From their conversations I realized how bad is the problem of overtourism in Bali is and why it needs to be controlled.
Determined not to contribute to the problem, I made conscious efforts to adopt a different travel style. These choices helped me be a better responsible traveler, leaving behind a positive impact on the environment.
Cut Down Your Plastic Bottle Use in Bali
The biggest contributor to pollution in Bali comes from plastic bottles. For many tourists, relying on plastic bottles is a routine, leading to the purchase of 2 to 3 bottles daily. On a 7-day trip, this equates to nearly 20 bottles, along with spending close to $50. However, there’s a simple and cost-effective alternative: refilling your bottles.
Throughout Bali, hostels and hotels offer water refill facilities. Every mainstream tourist destination and temples have water refill stations readily available. It’s incredibly easy to find water refill points wherever you go. You can easily eliminate the need to purchase and dispose of plastic bottles.
By choosing to refill your bottles and explore Bali without contributing to plastic waste, you not only reduce your environmental impact but also save money in the process.
Choose Recyclable Products Over Plastic Packed Ones
Zero waste backpacking experience in Bali is easier than you think. Opt for refreshing coconut water straight from the source, go shopping at local shops and markets where packaging is minimal, and enjoy the authentic Balinese cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
By making these choices, you can avoid unnecessary plastic straws, bottles, bags, and cutlery, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly travel experience.
Keep a Track of Water Refilling Stations with RefillMyBottle
RefillMyBottle, an NGO based in Bali, offers a convenient solution for travelers seeking water refilling stations. Their app provides information about refilling stations not only in Bali but also in various parts of Indonesia. By using this app, you can easily track down water refill points, making it simpler to stay hydrated while reducing plastic bottle waste during your travels.
Dine Responsibly at Warungs and Local Eateries
In Bali you’ll find a diverse array of global cuisines. There are restaurants for everyone and for varied tastes of its tourists. From small local eateries to large international chains and even McDonald’s and KFC, it is easy to eat something different everyday. However, for a more responsible dining experience, consider opting for warungs, traditional local eateries.
Warungs typically source local ingredients and many even grow their own food. This practice ensures freshness with minimal waste. Unlike larger chains that often rely on frozen or imported ingredients, warungs offer authentic dishes made from locally sourced produce. Warungs not only supports local businesses but also reduces your indirect plastic consumption associated with frozen or imported foods. Choose warungs for a more sustainable and culturally immersive dining experience in Bali.
Enjoy a Guilt Free Bali Trip by Making Your Travel Sustainable
If you are planning a trip to Bali, make sure to prioritize sustainability in your travel plans. It doesn’t require much effort to make your tour eco-friendly and thoughtful. Simply choose sustainable options and make conscious decisions throughout your journey. Remember, our individual actions can contribute to positive change and help preserve the beauty of Bali for future generations to enjoy.
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