Pantai Kuta in Badung Regency, Bali, is again experiencing an influx of marine debris, with driftwood and tree branches dominating the accumulation along the shoreline. Similar conditions have also been observed at Pantai Legian and Pantai Seminyak, according to confirmations from beach management and local authorities.
Kuta Beach manager I Nyoman Arya Arimbawa confirmed the situation on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. He stated that the debris is primarily composed of wood and branches, making this period one of the most severe in terms of volume compared to previous occurrences.
“Yes, that’s right (most). Marine debris in the west wind season has occurred every year. Every year, we experience shipment waste. The dominance of wood is a lot of volume; this week, it has just been stranded,” explained Arya.
Debris Arrived Since November
Arya Arimbawa explained that marine debris began arriving along the coast in November 2025 and has continued into early 2026. Based on established seasonal patterns, such conditions usually persist until March during the peak of the rainy season.
Most of the debris consists of natural materials such as branches and logs that are carried by ocean currents before washing ashore. In addition to wood waste, several smaller items were also found, including student hats labelled SMP Negeri 2 Srono and SD 1 Gondowulan Kepil.
Cleanup Using Heavy Equipment
Cleanup operations have been underway for several days. Large pieces of driftwood are being removed by the Badung Regency Environmental and Sanitation Agency using heavy machinery. Smaller debris is handled by local community members working along the beaches.
Arya Arimbawa stated that the cleanup is being carried out as quickly as possible to avoid disrupting tourist activities. The Badung Regency Government has reported that, as of the latest update, the volume of driftwood along the beaches has begun to decrease.
Debris Origin and Government Response
Previously, Bali Governor I Wayan Koster stated that much of the marine debris affecting Bali’s beaches originates outside the island, particularly from East Java. He also noted that debris can be carried by ocean currents from Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi.
According to Koster, during the rainy season, ocean currents transport waste into southern Bali waters, where it eventually accumulates along the coast. He has requested that the Badung Regency Government prepare adequate facilities and ensure sanitation personnel remain on standby, especially along the 20-kilometre stretch of coastline identified as prone to recurring debris buildup.
Authorities continue cleanup efforts while monitoring conditions along the beaches of Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak.
