Sustainable tourism: Time for everyone to take part

As tourism thrives in Bali, businesses on this picturesque island are shifting their attention to sustainable practices. Their aim is to safeguard their paradise from being engulfed by plastic waste.

Travel-Asia-Now-Sustainable tourism-Bisma-Cottages — *Sea of green: a visitor’s favorite scene in Ubud*

With millions flocking to Bali’s shores each year, it’s no surprise the island’s natural resources are under strain.

However, the rise in awareness of local environmental issues and the adoption of eco-friendly practices by more Bali businesses offer a ray of hope for the future. Stakeholders in agriculture and tourism on the island understand the onus is on them to drive change. Consequently, businesses are embracing environmentally conscious practices to pave the way for a sustainable Bali in the years ahead.

Eco-friendly initiatives in Bali

In addition to internationally recognized, youth-driven initiatives like Bye Bye Plastic Bags, Bali’s environmental crusaders come in numerous forms. The environmental heroes include recycling specialists Eco Bali, compost companies such as Urban Biologist, and waste-free warriors like Zero Waste and IbuBumi Bali. ‘Refillutionary’ apps like RefillMyBottle, meant to encourage water conservation and reduction of single-use water bottles, also make a big impact.

But it’s not just these organizations that are championing Bali’s environmental causes. A growing number of tourism operators and accommodations are integrating eco-friendly practices into their daily operations. Many establishments are contributing to a sustainable Bali.

Bisma Cottages Ubud’s sustainable tourism practices

The upscale Bisma Cottages in Ubud has long been implementing sustainable practices.

Since 2017, the resort has switched to using hygienic, refillable glass bottles for guests’ drinking water instead of single-use plastic ones. Additionally, they have replaced plastic straws with an eco-friendly metal variety.

Travel-Asia-Now-Sustainable tourism-Bisma-Cottages_refillable glass bottles — *Using refillable glass bottles is the way to go.*

Linens are changed every three days to conserve water and reduce detergent use in natural waterways.

The resort also donates locally made reusable bags to the nearby warung (small family-owned business) to discourage the use of plastic bags for takeaway food.

The T-shirts that make up Bisma Cottages’ staff uniforms are made from fabric comprising 60% cotton and 40% recycled plastic.

Travel-Asia-Now-Sustainable tourism-Bisma-Cottages-t-shirts made from 40% recycled plastic — *Bisma Cottages Ubud embraces many sustainable initiatives, such as using staff uniforms made from 40% recycled plastic.*

Even the decking around the pool at Bisma Cottages contributes to the resort’s nod to sustainable tourism. When it was time for it to be replaced in 2018, the owner opted to use Conwood, a pro-environmental product made from a mix of recycled plastic and sawdust.

Every small change is a step toward a cleaner, greener Bali. It is up to local operators, residents and even tourists to play a part in sustainable tourism. With the discerning travelers in 2020 leaning more toward accommodation options that promote a ‘greener’ approach, it is in everyone’s best interest to get on board.
Bisma Cottages

To experience your own slice of mountain paradise at Bisma Cottages, check out their website. Or follow them on Instagram @bismacottages for their latest accommodation deals and up-to-the-minute events in the Ubud area.