The Bali Tourism Office (Dispar) is urging all representatives of the tourism industry to switch to reusable cups and bottles for water and beverages to reduce plastic waste. Those who refuse may face disciplinary actions, including dismissal. While this request also applies to tourists, for now, it remains a recommendation rather than a requirement.
A new provincial government regulation has come into effect, banning the use of single-use plastic water bottles in government institutions and local schools. On the same day, the head of the Bali Tourism Office, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, announced that all employees would now be required to bring their own reusable containers to work and would no longer be allowed to use disposable food packaging.
According to Pemayun, as a regulatory body, the Tourism Office must set an example in preserving Bali’s beauty by reducing plastic waste. To support this initiative, water dispensers will be installed in office spaces, and eco-friendly cups will be provided for guests.
He also mentioned that billboards will be placed in popular tourist areas to reinforce the message. In addition to promoting plastic waste reduction, these billboards will remind visitors to pay the new tourist tax and outline other important regulations that travelers should be aware of when visiting the island.
Pemayun believes that reusable water bottles and thermos cups should become fashionable accessories, encouraging people to carry them as part of their lifestyle.
“I can match my bottle’s color or design to my outfit. For example, on Monday, I wear brown clothes, so I might choose a small brown bottle. Tomorrow, I’ll be wearing mostly black, so I’ll pick something different,” Pemayun mused.
According to the official, this transition is easy, as many companies already give out reusable cups and thermoses as promotional gifts, making it simple to quickly build a collection without having to buy them.
Other government departments in Bali have responded positively to the initiative—not just because of the potential sanctions for refusing to comply but also because water dispensers will now be available in all offices, helping employees save money on drinking water.
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