Balanced Tourism in Bali: Tips for Becoming a Responsible Traveler in Bali

Balanced Tourism in Bali: Tips for Becoming a Responsible Traveler in Bali

Tourists, unsurprisingly, are flocking to this tropical paradise called Bali in record-breaking numbers. With tourist numbers steadily increasing over the last few years, the economy has greatly benefited, pulling in moolah from countries like America, China, Japan, and Britain.

However, these swarms of tourists concentrated in the south, hitting areas like Kuta, Semniyak, and Canggu, have created some serious environmental and sociological issues on this lovely Indonesian island. The negative consequences? Drought and plastic pollution, baby. Let's dive into these problems and find out ways tourists can do better.

Gas Can, Garbage Can: Time to Chuck that Garbage

Take a walk on the wild side and tread where tourists and their selfie sticks roam. That's right, mate, we're talking 'bout plastic pollution. This eye-sore is everywhere on Bali and its surrounding islands, like Nusa Penida, making it hard to ignore. As tourists snap away like paparazzi, trash casually loiters on the ground. Visuals of litter in the Monkey Forest in Ubud and garbage on the Balinese beaches show the extent of the problem.

Last year, massive three-day cleanups on popular Kuta beach collected 18 tons of plastic waste – yuck! The Environment and Forestry Ministry's Environmental Pollution and Damage Control Directorate General estimated that out of the 1.2 million tons of ocean trash in Indonesia, 31 percent was plastic. That's almost a third of the planet's plastic waste coming from one country.

Thankfully, the Indonesian government has taken steps to tackle the plastic problem. In 2016, Bali saw a 50 percent reduction of plastic waste after a trial tax on plastic bags. In 2018, a ban was enacted on single-use plastics like shopping bags, Styrofoam, and straws to lower marine plastic by 70 percent.

But the war against plastic isn't over yet. While eco-friendly measures such as bamboo straws at popular restaurants and glass straws for sales on street corners demonstrate the momentum of the plastic-free movement, plastic waste and bottles are still everywhere. Dining establishments continue to serve take-out food in plastic bags and Styrofoam containers and disposable cutlery. To see the full effects of the plastic-free lifestyle and truly break the habit, time's a-tickin'!

Dry Spells and Scarcity: Drought, Bali's Other Problem

Another consequence of increased tourism in Bali is drought. In 2019, approximately 92 percent of the nation was under the threat of drought, with nine provinces being particularly hard-hit. The consequences? Shortage of clean water, reduced irrigation water supplies, and crop failures. While unevenly dry and harsh seasons can be blamed on climate change, the strain tourists have placed on the system hasn't exactly helped matters.

Groundwater is exhausted as hotels demand water and water is diverted to urban areas supporting the south's heavily populated region. With 65 percent of the island's water being used for tourism, IDEP – an Indonesian non-governmental organization – is concerned. To address this issue, IDEP has launched the Bali Water Protection Program, aiming for life in harmony with nature.

In just ten years, Bali's water table has plummeted over 50 meters in some areas, leaving wells dry or containing foul water, especially in the south. High-end resorts and villas, with large swimming pools, golf courses, and expansive gardens, can consume thousands of liters of water daily.

Tourism has also impeded traditional irrigation processes like subak. Sine the ninth century, subak has served as a sophisticated system diverting water from a channel to the rice field and back again. A significant part of Bali's iconic rice farming, subak is crucial to the island's cultural, religious, and practical existence. In some areas like Canggu, rice fields are being pushed aside for development.

Hey, You! Step Up Your Game and Save Bali tourism

So, you want to visit Bali without trashing the place? No problem, mate! Check out these tips to minimize your impact on the environment and help Bali keep its paradise status:

1. Quench Your Thirst Responsibly: The quickest and most effective way to reduce your plastic use? Ditch disposable water bottles and carry a reusable one instead. Drink filtered, refillable water at your guesthouses instead!
2. Bag It: Remember those reusable bags you've had lying around? Time to put them to good use. Take them shopping at local markets to avoid contributing to plastic waste.
3. Skip the South: When deciding where to lay your head, head for the lesser-known parts of Bali to limit your contribution to crowding. Plans are in the works to develop the northern parts of the island – so keep an eye out for that!
4. Get Your Hands Dirty: Scheduling a clean-up session as part of your vacation is the perfect way to make a positive impact on the island. Cleaning up the coast and meeting other like-minded travelers? Sign us up!
5. Home Away From Home: Swapping your luxury hotel for an eco-lodge or guesthouse is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option. Plus, it's a great way to support the locals!
6. Honor the Island: Eating vegetarian or vegan options, supporting warungs (local Indonesian food stalls), and opting for local products are excellent ways to show your love for Bali.
7. Be Aware: Remember, you're a visitor in a developing country. Treat the locals and their environment with respect, tip generously, and support things you believe in. Take a peek at this biodegradable, locally made bag to start your eco-conscious journey!
8. Love the Water: Engage in water-friendly activities like snorkeling, diving, or even exploring rice terraces. Dive headfirst into environmentally friendly adventures that support local ecosystems!
9. Mingle Among Locals: Swap the touristy areas for local hangout spots and chit-chat with the locals. They'll be happy to share a bit of their culture, history, and tips for minimizing environmental impact in the area.

Bali, a gem in paradise, offers tourists a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse ecology, and rich culture. Rather than boycotting travel to Bali, consider putting your dollars towards sustainable practices and organizations, making a positive impact on the island. Tourism's impact on infrastructure and traditions simply cannot be ignored, but that doesn't mean you have to halt your travel plans. Channel your inner traveler and explore Bali responsibly, minimizing your environmental footprint and maximizing your Bali-tastic memories. Adios, dubious travel practices! It's time to up your sustainable tourism game, mate!

Science students studying climate change and environmental science have taken an interest in the impact of tourism on Bali's lifestyle and travel patterns, particularly in relation to the issues of drought and plastic pollution. Tourists who visit this tropical paradise can contribute to these problems by carelessly discarding plastic waste and over-consuming water. To mitigate these issues, scientists suggest adopting a sustainable lifestyle, such as carrying a reusable water bottle, avoiding single-use plastics, visiting less crowded areas, participating in clean-up events, staying at eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local businesses, being mindful of the environment and culture, and engaging in water-friendly activities. By making these changes, travelers can reduce their environmental footprint and support Bali's long-term sustainable development.

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