5 MIN READ
02-13-2026
Protecting Kedungwungu Ditch with Phil’s: Riverboom Team in Action
Dika, 4ocean Jembrana Content Correspondent
On January 15, 2026, Team Riverboom 4ocean Java carried out another routine cleanup at the trash net installed along the Kedungwungu village canal. This cleanup was supported by our partner, Phil’s, whose continued commitment strengthens our efforts to intercept waste before it reaches larger rivers and eventually the ocean. The Kedungwungu ditch net plays a crucial role in capturing debris from a residential area, where daily household waste too often finds its way into the water.
Before departing, Captain Indra Dwi Pramono instructed the crew to prepare all necessary equipment. The site is located approximately 18 kilometers from the 4ocean Java base and requires around 35 minutes of travel by motorcycle. Upon arrival, the team was met with a net already overwhelmed by a large volume of waste. Without delay, they began the cleanup.
As the process unfolded, the strength of the water current combined with the sheer amount of debris created an intense and physically demanding situation. The net struggled to contain the buildup. At one point, the crew had to physically hold back the trapped waste with their bodies to prevent it from being swept downstream. This action required coordination, strength, and focus, as the team restrained the debris while simultaneously collecting it into sacks. The work was exhausting, but necessary.
Among the waste collected were plastic bags, plastic bottles, plastic packaging, foam, hats, shoes, sandals, various organic waste, and even chicken carcasses. The presence of animal remains posed an additional challenge, as the strong and unpleasant odor disrupted the cleanup process. Despite these conditions, the team remained committed to finishing the task.
By the end of the operation, 277.6 pounds of plastic waste had been collected across 8 sacks, along with 399 pounds of mixed waste across 5 sacks. In total, 616.6 pounds of debris were removed from the ditch net in a single day. After several hours of work, the captain instructed the crew to gather all filled sacks at the designated weighing area, marking the completion of another demanding cleanup.
Indra Dwi Pramono reflected on the importance of these routine efforts, stating, “The routine cleanups we carry out are not merely about removing trash from the ditch nets. The waste we collect is a source of pollution that must be addressed immediately. Pollution in the ditch flow is a direct result of waste disposal practices by communities living along the waterways. Through this action, we hope to educate the public about managing waste in everyday.”
The Kedungwungu ditch net serves as a temporary barrier, preventing waste from flowing into larger rivers and eventually reaching the sea. However, the consistently full condition of the net highlights a deeper issue upstream. Poor waste disposal habits within the community continue to contribute to pollution, threatening aquatic ecosystems and increasing the risk of microplastic contamination in water systems.
Through consistent cleanups at Kedungwungu Riverboom, Team Riverboom 4ocean Java reinforces the importance of sustained environmental action. The data recorded from each cleanup is not just a number. It represents the reality of pollution in our waterways and the urgent need for change.
Team 4ocean Java invites everyone to take part in protecting our water systems. Simple actions, such as not littering and managing household waste responsibly, are essential steps toward cleaner waterways, healthier communities, and a more sustainable future.
Learn more about 4ocean's partnership with Phil's here.
