5 MIN READ
06-13-2025
War Against Waste at Kedonganan Beach
Ucik, 4ocean Bali Content Correspondent
Uniting Forces for a Cleaner Future
Kedonganan Beach, June 06, 2025—The battle against waste continues as the 4ocean Denpasar team joined forces with DLHK Badung and the Bali Military Command (TNI Kodim Bali) to tackle the severe plastic pollution plaguing this well-known coastline. With its scenic beauty under constant threat from incoming ocean waste and illegal dumping, this cleanup mission was critical to restoring Kedonganan Beach.
DLHK Badung, the regional sanitation department responsible for waste management, played a key role in gathering and transporting waste away from the beach. Meanwhile, the Indonesian National Army (TNI), typically focused on national security, stepped in to assist in environmental protection efforts. Their collaboration with 4ocean exemplified how community-driven action can address environmental crises.
During the operation, the team discovered a dead fish buried beneath the trash, a grim reminder of how marine life suffers due to pollution. Moved by the sight, they buried the fish as a symbolic gesture of respect for the ocean’s fragile ecosystem.
After four hours of relentless effort, the team paused to reflect on their work over shared cups of coffee and tea. A volunteer took the opportunity to speak to the local community, urging them to avoid disposing of waste in rivers and oceans, as these actions directly contribute to pollution. They also emphasized the importance of recycling and waste separation as small but significant steps toward a cleaner environment. To conclude, they expressed gratitude to 4ocean for its continuous dedication to coastal cleanups and environmental education.
The cleanup operation resulted in the removal of 1,096.85 lbs of plastic waste, including styrofoam, plastic bottles, sandals, string, and other debris. The sheer volume of collected waste underscored the urgent need for responsible waste management and stronger conservation efforts.
The cleanup was not without its obstacles. High morning tides made it difficult to prevent waste from being carried back into the ocean. Additionally, heavy rainfall midway through the operation forced the team to temporarily halt their efforts due to the risk of lightning. However, once conditions improved, they resumed the cleanup, donning raincoats to ensure their safety.
One unique aspect of this cleanup was its spontaneity. The collaboration between 4ocean, DLHK Badung, and the TNI was not pre-arranged—it was an organic effort sparked by a shared commitment to environmental protection. This highlights how collective awareness and responsibility can drive immediate action in preserving our natural spaces.
The Kedonganan Beach cleanup serves as another step toward long-term environmental sustainability. It reinforced the necessity of continuous efforts, both in waste removal and community education, to prevent future pollution. Through partnerships like this, the fight for cleaner oceans and coastlines remains strong.
The 4ocean team remains committed to protecting Indonesia’s beaches and inspiring local communities to take action, one cleanup at a time.
