Fishing for litter in Bali

Positive impact generated

Context

The Batu Lumbang mangrove forest, located at the mouth of two heavily polluted rivers, is a biodiversity hotspot threatened by plastic waste. The site’s location exposes it to a constant influx of toxic debris.

Plastic is a major threat to coastal and marine ecosystems, causing suffocation and microplastic buildup when ingested, endangering many species. In the most polluted areas, such as Batu Lumbang, marine pollution is accelerating local biodiversity loss and undermining fishing communities’ livelihoods. The project seeks to counteract this phenomenon, safeguarding vital species - such as crabs, oysters, and young fish - that depend on mangroves for shelter.

Gallery

Raccolta Dei Rifiuti Indonesia Bali 5 3x

Raccolta Dei Rifiuti Indonesia Bali 4 3x

Raccolta Dei Rifiuti Indonesia Bali 3 3x

Raccolta Dei Rifiuti Indonesia Bali 2 3x

Raccolta Dei Rifiuti Indonesia Bali 1 3x

Stakeholders and local partners

Who are the key stakeholders?

The project is promoted by Ogyre and made possible through the active involvement of Balinese fishing communities who receive financial incentives to collect and correctly dispose of marine waste. Scientific partners help monitor ecosystem health and assess the impact of plastic on biodiversity. Local institutions collaborate in waste management, while communities benefit directly in terms of income, decent work, and improved living conditions.

Project Developer:

Objectives and approach

The goal is to remove at least 100,000 kg of waste each year, protect the Batu Lumbang mangroves, and support local communities.

The project seeks to enhance the ecological resilience of the mangroves, reduce marine pollution, and improve the well-being of local fishing communities. By recycling collected waste, it also reduces CO₂-equivalent emissions, strengthening the link between environmental and social sustainability.

The project follows a circular economy and socially inclusive approach, incentivizing fishermen to gather plastic during their work and deposit it at secure recycling centers. All waste is monitored and recycled, reducing the generation of emissions from new plastic manufacturing and revitalizing the ecosystem. Combining local expertise with technical assistance ensures the approach remains sustainable over time.