
The Bali Provincial Government has ramped up its commitment to reducing single-use plastic waste with a new directive banning plastic packaging for food and beverages in government institutions and schools.
The move comes as concerns about Bali’s mounting plastic waste problem continue to dominate local and international discussions.
The circular, numbered SE No. 2 of 2025 and issued on 20 January 2025, explicitly bans the use of single-use plastics in government and educational environments. The regulation will take effect on 3 February 2025.
Concrete Steps Towards Sustainability
Bali’s beaches and waterways have long struggled with plastic pollution, often exacerbated by seasonal waste inflows. This issue has drawn criticism from environmental groups and tourists alike, tarnishing the island’s reputation as a global travel destination.
Dewa Made Indra, Bali’s Provincial Secretary, underscored the urgency of this policy as a step toward tackling the issue.
“This policy aims to ensure that all regional agencies, regionally owned enterprises (BUMD), and schools in Bali strictly limit single-use plastics,” Indra stated during a press conference in Denpasar on 21 January.
Under the circular, government offices are prohibited from providing drinks and food in plastic packaging, whether in workspaces or during official events such as meetings and ceremonial activities. Employees are instead required to use personal tumblers, with stainless steel or BPA-free certified plastic tumblers recommended.
Extending to Education and Training
The directive also applies to all participants in training programs (Diklat) within the provincial government, including those from outside Bali’s government institutions. Participants are mandated to bring their own tumblers to meet hydration needs during activities.
Schools have a pivotal role in the campaign. Indra urged school principals and teachers to lead by example and foster habits of using reusable tumblers among students.
“We ask principals and teachers to set an example for students and encourage the habit of using tumblers as an effort to reduce plastic waste in schools,” he added.
Monitoring Compliance
To ensure the policy’s effectiveness, the Bali Provincial Government has instructed the heads of all regional agencies, BUMD, and schools to supervise and enforce the regulation within their respective institutions.
“We hope this policy is implemented responsibly by all relevant parties to achieve a greener and more sustainable Bali,” Indra concluded.
The initiative is a significant step in Bali’s ongoing efforts to combat plastic waste, aligning with the island’s broader environmental goals.