Bali cracks down on single-use plastics amid calls for stronger waste infrastructure

PHILIPPINES – Bali has enacted a ban on producing and distributing plastic water containers smaller than one litre, marking a bold step in its ongoing fight against plastic pollution.

The new policy, signed by Governor Wayan Koster and outlined in a circular memorandum, specifically targets small-format plastic cups, half-litre water bottles, and other single-use containers.

The ban applies to six sectors: government offices, traditional villages, private businesses, hospitality, educational institutions, markets, and religious establishments.

Environmental groups have welcomed the ban as a move in the right direction but emphasize that it must be backed by investment in local waste management infrastructure and widespread availability of refill stations to ensure long-term impact.

Many stress that such bans may not have the intended effect without a reliable system to manage and reduce waste at the source.

Bali has made headlines before with its 2019 ban on single-use plastic bags, straws, and styrofoam in supermarkets and retail stores.

However, challenges remain. The 2024 Sungai Watch Impact Report revealed that plastic bags are still among the most frequently found waste items in Bali’s rivers, accounting for 14.2% of total waste collected, second only to clear plastic bags (18.2%) and residual waste (31.9%).

“These items are still widely available and commonly used,” noted Sungai Watch, a local environmental NGO.

“At the regional level, some local governments have taken steps to encourage waste separation at the source, and a number of villages—such as Cemenggaon, Taro, and Padangtegal—have developed their sustainable waste management systems.”

In line with this effort, the Buleleng Regency Government calls on residents to manage waste at the household level through composting, recycling, and reducing residual waste, while adopting eco-friendly, reusable alternatives.

Similarly, Quezon City has announced a sweeping ban on single-use plastics and disposable materials within City Hall and other government-run facilities.

Executive Order No. 3, Series of 2025, effective April 21, 2025, restricts the use of plastic bags, PET bottles, styrofoam containers, and other single-use packaging by city employees.

Staff are now required to bring reusable containers and eco-bags for purchases. Visitors may still receive food in disposable packaging but are barred from bringing it inside government buildings.

Additionally, plastic-packaged food deliveries are banned unless the packaging is returned to a designated recycling point.

The policy supports Quezon City’s broader Green Public Procurement Ordinance, which promotes sustainable practices in city-run operations.

To ensure compliance, orientation sessions have been conducted for vendors and staff, with penalties and disciplinary actions outlined for violations.

These sessions highlight how local governments across Asia are pairing bans with enforcement and education to curb plastic waste.

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