Bali Waste Crisis After Landfill Closure

Indonesia — Bali is facing a severe waste crisis after its largest landfill, Suwung, was declared off-limits for organic waste in early April, as Indonesia moves to enforce a long-standing ban on open tips. With no immediate alternatives, trash is piling up in streets, attracting rats, and being burned by frustrated residents, causing acrid smoke and health concerns. This situation is negatively impacting local businesses, such as Yuvita Anggi Prinanda's flower stall, and affecting Indonesia — Bali's tourism appeal. Sanitation workers, including I Wayan Tedi Brahmanca, have protested the lack of disposal options. The local government has temporarily allowed limited disposal at Suwung until July, but a nationwide ban on open landfills is vowed from August. Experts like Nur Azizah from Gadjah Mada University highlight the dangers of organic waste in landfills and advocate for composting. The government, through officials like Ida Bagus Wirabawa, has initiated awareness campaigns and distributed composting containers, and Indonesia plans to break ground on waste-to-energy projects, including one in Indonesia — Bali, in June.