Indonesia ep.3: The "dark" side of Bali
I usually post very positive things. Experiences, places, thoughts and feelings that can inspire others to search beyond what we are told everywhere - in school, at home or in the media. The world is big and beautiful, you just have to face your fears and limitations and get out of that comfort zone.
This is not a negative post about Bali. I'm writing and attaching these photos in order to raise awareness. It was two years ago in December, somewhere around Christmas. We decided to visit Kuta Beach, although not a big fan of very touristy and crowded spots. Before we got to the beach we noticed that it was really crowded, there were locals and tourists from all over the world. We walked a few stairs and got to the beach. And there it was. The most unpredictable sight, something I could never imagine seeing on this paradise island famous all aver the world. About 300 square meters or more of beach and sea covered in trash, you basically had to search your way around the plastic cans, bags and different kind of waste. People were having picnics there. Children were playing in the water. I was so angry I wanted to scream. How can we let this happen?
Eventually I found out that December is also called trash season in Bali, especially Kuta Beach, because it's the time of the year that the sea currents bring the waste from other islands around. Like that's supposed to make it alright. People, wake up! Educate yourselves and understand that you are here because of this planet, but the planet can very well live without you. You eat from that sea, your children eat from that sea! We should have more respect for nature and for ourselves. If every one of us would play our part in the puzzle and understand how every individual action matters we would not get here.
As you will see in my future posts about Bali not all the beaches were like this. But there should be no exception. None!
Thank you for reading this, hopefully you got my message :)
More people need to address this issue and in a more direct approach. Last time I've checked India was the cause of 10% of world's pollution. True that it holds about 17% of the world's population in demographics, but there should be a way. Hopefully the internet and the blockchain will provide the tools to raise the awareness.
The answer to this is education, I was amazed how a lot of people in SE Asia just didn't care about the environment. Because they were never thought to care. If they would just understand how important it is and what a change they can make that would be a first step.
Education is one of the culprits. But for what reason education is not spread enough? I saw what lack of education due to bad policies in Northern India. I'd rather say greed is the answer.
I guess because educated people don't equal cheap labor. Most of the people struggle to survive, education is their last concern. Indonesia is one of the most corrupt countries in the world, a few thrive and the majority live in poverty. So yes, greed is one of the reasons.
Great post !!!
Follow me and I will follow you !!!
And lets do the comments and upvotes exchange !!!
Please stop do this!
Beautiful picture. Bali is on my Wish List. Hope to visit when I go down under again.
Similar to our romanian people, such a shame!
Interesting !