Everything You Need To Know on Bali Banning Single Use Plastics

On December 24, 2018, Bali Governer Wayan Koster announced a major step to curb pollution by enacting a ban on single-use plastic and here’s what you need to know:

• This new policy aims to reduce Bali’s marine plastics by 70 percent.
• The ban prohibits single-use plastic, which includes shopping bags, Styrofoam and straws.
• The ban will improve marine life in Bali, one of Indonesia’s most popular holiday islands.
• The policy is aimed at businesses to set an example and the Indonesian government hopes that individuals will follow suit.
• There is a six-month grace period from the time the ban is enacted to the time when individuals and businesses will be penalized if they do not follow suit.

The importance of this ban cannot be stressed enough. Day in and day out, people constantly use plastic because it is convenient and inexpensive. However, not many consider the effects that single-use plastic has on our environment. If a change is not made soon, plastic that exists in the world’s ocean surfaces will outweigh all of the fish in the sea by 2050. Additionally, plastic is so durable that it does not decompose. Not only does plastic pollute our oceans, plastic in oceans can affect the animals that inhabit it. 

This plastic ban is just the beginning of what we can do to improve our ecosystems. With a little help and the right guidance, our efforts can go a long way.