On April 19th, 2024, under the vast skies of Kedonganan Beach, a community of environmental enthusiasts came together for a noble cause. Despite the unexpected rain that delayed our efforts by 15 minutes, nothing could dampen the spirits of the 109 dedicated participants who joined hands to restore the pristine beauty of our beloved coastline.
This month’s beach cleanup showcased a distinctive collaboration, thanks to the sponsorship and participation of Varnion Technology Semesta one of the leading app-based companies in Indonesia that provides sustainable connection and innovation. Renowned for its WOW service, currently Varnion focuses on supporting a sustainable future through its innovative application integrated into a cloud-based platform.
Leading the charge were 22 dedicated volunteers from Varnion, embodying their corporate ethos of social responsibility. Alongside them, 38 enthusiastic high school students from SMA 2 Kuta Selatan, accompanied by their five supportive teachers, joined forces. Additionally, 30 passionate students from Bali WISE contributed their commitment to environmental stewardship. And, as always, the tireless efforts of the R.O.L.E Foundation Team were instrumental in making the cleanup a success.
Despite the initial setback, the rain served as a reminder of the urgent need for action against ocean pollution. Armed with gloves, trash bags, and unwavering determination, our volunteers combed the shoreline, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to rid the beach of litter. Through their collective efforts, a staggering 509.57 kilograms of waste were removed from the sands with 11% of it being hard plastic. This impressive haul not only speaks volumes about the dedication of our volunteers but also underscores the magnitude of the environmental challenges we face.
But beyond the numbers lies a deeper significance. Each plastic bottle, every stray piece of trash, represents not just pollution, but also the potential for change. Our clean-up efforts are not merely about tidying up beaches; they are about fostering a culture of environmental consciousness, one that transcends boundaries and inspires collective action.
Location and Condition of the Beach
Located adjacent to the bustling Fish Market area, Kedonganan Beach stands as a pivotal nexus for locals, tourists, fishermen, and buyers alike, renowned for its vibrant seafood market. This coastal gem not only bolsters the local economy but also gratifies the culinary cravings of residents and visitors. Beyond its culinary magnetism, Kedonganan serves as a convergence point for surfers and fishermen, with many availing themselves of the expertise of local fishermen and their vessels to conquer the thrilling waves of the vast ocean.
However, the burgeoning popularity of this dynamic locale presents a challenge – a surge in waste, exacerbated by remnants from the fish market and debris carried by the ocean currents, especially during the rainy season. This environmental issue not only detracts from the picturesque allure of the beach but also introduces unwelcome odors. Recognizing Kedonganan’s indispensable role in the community’s livelihood and leisure, we have embarked on a beach cleaning campaign slated for this December. Our objective is to alleviate the environmental impact, rejuvenate the beach’s visual appeal, and safeguard the well-being of the diverse community that treasures this coastal sanctuary.
Waste Collection and Separation
A team of 109 dedicated volunteers joined forces to eliminate a substantial 509.57 kg of waste. Notably, 64% of the collected waste fell under the residue category, a common occurrence resulting from severely broken items. These broken waste items are often caused by being buried in sand or tossed around by currents in the ocean.
The cleanup also shed light on specific environmental hurdles. Ghost nets, constituting 3.2% of the collected waste, were more prevalent due to heavy morning rain softening the sand and facilitating their removal. These abandoned fishing nets, left behind by fishermen, pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the prevalence of hard plastics at 10.8%, particularly styrofoam, underscores a persistent issue near fish markets like Kedonganan, where styrofoam is still widely used for packaging and as floatation devices for nets. The unwavering efforts of the ZeroWaste Center and its volunteers remain paramount in addressing these challenges and promoting a sustainable coastal environment.
This month’s beach cleanup is sponsored by Varnion Technology Semesta
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