Under the bright sun of August 23, 2024, a dedicated team of environmental advocates gathered at Jerman Beach for a focused cleanup effort. Despite the early hour, the enthusiasm of the 43 participants, which included R.O.L.E. Foundation staff, Bali WISE students, and volunteers, was palpable. Their collective aim was to tackle the waste problem at this popular destination.

The event proved to be both productive and revealing. Over the course of the morning, the team managed to collect a total of 298.05 kilograms of waste. Among the collected materials, residue amounted to 94.9 kilograms, which represents 31.8% of the total waste—marking the second-lowest residue percentage this year. This accomplishment highlights a significant reduction in unidentifiable waste compared to previous cleanups.

Thanks to our valuable sponsors, Club Ocean and Think Ocean CIC, whose generous support made this initiative possible. Their commitment to preserving our oceans and coastlines is truly inspiring, and their partnership is instrumental in our ongoing efforts to maintain the natural beauty of Jerman Beach for everyone to enjoy.

Notably, a considerable portion of the waste consisted of surfboard scraps, totaling 47.7 kilograms. This is likely due to the beach’s popularity among surfers, who contribute to the accumulation of such debris. Additionally, glass bottles were prominently featured in the haul, amounting to 49.67 kilograms. This is reflective of the beach’s role as a social hotspot where people gather and enjoy beverages.

The breakdown of the collected waste underscores the dual nature of Jerman Beach as both a surfing and social destination. The presence of surfboard scraps emphasizes the impact of recreational activities on the beach’s cleanliness. Meanwhile, the high quantity of glass bottles points to the need for better waste management practices among beachgoers.

The cleanup highlighted not only the types of waste found but also the broader environmental issue of beach pollution. Each piece of trash collected serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for environmental awareness and action. The combined efforts of the volunteers contribute significantly to maintaining the beauty and health of Jerman Beach, ensuring it remains a welcoming spot for both surfers and social visitors alike.

Location and Condition of Jerman Beach

Jerman Beach, known for its vibrant surfing scene and recreational atmosphere, faces unique challenges related to waste management. Its popularity among both locals and tourists contributes to a significant accumulation of debris. The beach’s dual role as a surfing destination and a social hangout spot leads to diverse types of waste, from surfboard materials to glass bottles.

Adding to these challenges, there are several green areas around the beach where waste often becomes trapped, making it difficult to remove. These spots, which are meant to enhance the natural beauty of the beach, unfortunately, become inadvertent repositories for litter as people throw waste into them. Moreover, the cleanup revealed some areas that have been used for burning waste, further complicating the beach’s waste management efforts and contributing to environmental degradation. Efforts to clean up the beach not only address immediate waste issues but also aim to foster a greater sense of environmental responsibility among beachgoers.

Waste Collection and Separation

The cleanup event at Jerman Beach saw the collection of 298.05 kilograms of waste by 43 participants. Among this, residue comprised 31.8% of the total. A closer examination of the waste revealed that hard plastic was the most prevalent type of plastic collected, accounting for 12.2% of the total waste. Items such as discarded buckets, vehicle oil containers, and beach toys like small shovels were frequently found, highlighting the diverse activities that take place on the beach. Additionally, a significant amount of styrofoam was collected, totaling 11.1 kilograms, with much of it coming from noodle cups.

The cleanup not only successfully removed a large amount of waste but also provided valuable insights into the types of debris affecting Jerman Beach. This effort underscores the importance of continued environmental action and the need for improved waste management practices to preserve the beach’s natural beauty and ensure a clean, safe environment for all visitors.