Gary Bencheghib continues his fight against plastic pollution in Bali: he and his team are cleaning up Kendonganan Beach

Bali has become infamous for the plastic waste emergency which afflicts its beaches and waterways. One of the protagonists of the battle against pollution is Gary Bencheghibeco-activist and founder of Sungai Watchan organization founded in 2020 with the aim of restoring the island’s ecosystem and drastically reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in the oceans.

Gary and his team are currently engaged in one intensive cleaning at Kendonganan Beachone of the places most affected by the “wave of plastic” brought by seasonal currents. Every morning, from 6 to 9, dozens of volunteers meet on the beach for remove tons of waste which accumulate day after day. Despite relentless efforts, the problem seems to be growing faster efforts to address it.

The efforts of the Sungai Watch team

The Sungai Watch team is known for its innovative approach. Since 2020 it has installed over 180 barriers along the rivers of Bali to intercept waste before it reaches the sea. Each barrier is carefully monitored and the materials collected are catalogued, disposed of or recycled when possible. Their ambitious goal is to get to 1,000 barriers installed, a number that could make a significant difference not only for Bali, but as a replicable model around the world.

The situation at Kendonganan Beach reflects a global problem: plastic pollution, fueled by poor disposal practices, industrial contaminants and uncontrolled consumption. Among the waste collected there are objects of all kinds, from plastic bottles to pieces of polystyreneup to unexpected objects such as furniture and building materials.

Despite the gravity of the situation, the actions of Gary and his team represent a light of hope. Their dedication has inspired the local and international community, proving that a change is possible when working together.

Sungai Watch’s commitment is not limited to waste collection. The organization also aims to raise awareness people about the environmental crisis, organizing educational events and creating content that talks about the scope of the problem and the importance of taking action.

The fight to save Kendonganan Beach and the other coasts of Bali continues, but thanks to Gary Bencheghib and his team, the island has a real chance of rediscover its pristine beauty finally free from waste.