You might hear about Bali’s new plastic bottle ban while planning your trip or after you arrive. It’s a big, positive step towards sustainability, and it’s good for you to understand. Bali’s beautiful nature is special to everyone. There’s a strong commitment here to protect it, in line with the island’s harmony philosophy (Tri Hita Karana). Reducing plastic waste is key to this promise.
Don’t worry – staying hydrated is still easy! This is about a small shift towards more eco-friendly habits. As your friendly team at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we’ll explain this regulation and share easy tips. Our goal is to help you adapt and feel good about keeping Bali clean during your stay.
Understanding the Bali Bottle Ban for Small Plastics
This important rule comes from the Governor of Bali Circular Letter No. 9 of 2025, starting in early April 2025. Details are often on the official JDIH website.
Stay refreshed and help Bali by using a reusable water bottle
The Core Rule: Simply put, Bali now bans making, selling, and giving out single-use plastic drink containers (like water and soda bottles, and plastic cups) smaller than 1 litre (1000ml). It targets those small, convenient but wasteful items.
Still Available: Larger Bottles and Other Drinks: Larger plastic bottles (1 litre, 1.5 litre, or gallon sizes) and drinks in glass bottles or aluminium cans are generally not affected. The focus is on reducing small, disposable plastics.
Who Does the Bali Plastic Bottle Rule Apply To? This rule aims for wide impact. It applies to makers, distributors, and providers of these small containers. For visitors, this includes hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, markets, schools, government offices, and other public places.
Why the Ban on Small Plastic Bottles Matters for Bali
The Bali Government and its people care about plastic waste. This regulation aims to:
- Reduce Plastic Waste: Bali faces challenges managing plastic. Small, single-use plastics often pollute the land and ocean. This ban tackles a major source.
- Protect Natural Beauty: It helps keep Bali’s beaches, oceans, and nature clean, which is vital for the island and its visitors.
- Foster Sustainable Tourism: This is part of Bali’s plan for more responsible tourism, aligning with global environmental awareness.
- Build on Past Efforts: Bali previously limited plastic bags and straws. This is the next step.
Easy Ways for Visitors to Adapt to the Bali Bottle Ban
Adapting is easy and feels good!
Fewer Small Plastic Bottles: You’ll likely see fewer small (<1L) plastic water and drink bottles for sale or offered for free in places like hotels. Instead, expect more larger bottles (1L or 1.5L) or drinks in glass or aluminium.
Reusable Bottles are Key! Bring your own reusable water bottle or buy a local one as a souvenir!
Water Refill Stations are Growing: It’s getting easier to refill your bottle on the go. Look for them at:
- Hotels: Many, including Merusaka, offer filtered water dispensers.
- Cafes & Restaurants: More and more offer refills, often free or cheap. Just ask!
- Dedicated Networks: Check out the “RefillMyBottle” app or website for refill locations.
Staying Hydrated is Simple: Use refill stations. Or, buy larger 1.5L water bottles to refill your smaller one.
Be Part of the Change: Using a reusable bottle helps keep Bali clean and supports sustainable tourism. It’s a simple action that makes a difference!
Simple Tips for Living with the Bali Plastic Bottle Ban
- Pack a Reusable Bottle: Make it essential. Choose a durable, insulated one that’s easy to carry.
- Look for Refills: Ask at hotels, cafes, restaurants, and yoga studios. Use the RefillMyBottle app.
- Buy Larger Bottles (If Needed): If you buy packaged water, choose 1.5L or larger to reduce waste. Refill your smaller bottle from it.
- Support Green Businesses: Choose places that offer refills or use non-plastic alternatives.
- Dispose Responsibly: Use recycling or general waste bins correctly for all your waste.
In Conclusion: A Greener Bali Thanks to the Bottle Ban
Bali’s ban on small (<1L) plastic drink containers is a big step towards protecting its environment for everyone.
For visitors, it means using reusable water bottles and refill stations. This is easy, often saves money, helps you stay hydrated, and lets you help keep Bali beautiful.
Merusaka fully supports these efforts and helps our guests embrace sustainable practices. We hope you’ll join us!
