Bali has banned single-use plastics in a bid to reduce catastrophic ocean pollution on the island.

A new law means the use of plastic bags, straws and Styrofoam is now illegal as of last week (July 2).

The Indonesian government has recognised the huge scale of the problem on the popular holiday destination, and has stated goals to reduce plastic marine waste by 70% in just one year.

Bali Governor Wayan Koster told the Jakarta Post: “This policy is aimed at producers, distributors, suppliers and business actors, including individuals, to suppress the use of single-use plastics. They must substitute plastics with other materials.

“If they disobey, we will take action, like not extending their business permit.”

Bali’s beaches are often covered in trash, and estimates suggest up to 80% of the waste comes from the island itself. 

Hotels, villages and businesses are often blamed for dumping rubbish in rivers, which is then carried out to see and eventually washes back on to beaches. 

Nearby Jakarta is set to follow suit and will ban the use of single use plastic bags. 

• Read: Supermarkets in Asia have swapped plastic for banana leaves

What do you think of Bali’s new plastics law? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Oli Gross

Oli’s career and personal ethical values both help shape his reporting of the diverse world of veganism. His background is in local newspaper and magazine journalism, and his work has included reporting court cases, celebrity interviews, business analysis, food and drink features and government legislation.

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