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Addressing Bali's Water Scarcity Crisis:
Challenges and Solutions for Businesses
April 2024 – By The Punch Editors
As global tourism surges in Bali, Indonesia and the island's population grows, the demand for water has skyrocketed, putting immense pressure on Bali's already strained water resources. For businesses, especially those in the hospitality and agriculture sectors, this crisis poses significant risks. However, with innovation and sustainable practices, there's hope to turn the tide.
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Bali's water scarcity is a
multifaceted issue rooted in various factors.
THE CHALLENGES
Bali's water scarcity is a multifaceted issue rooted in various factors. Climate change has altered rainfall patterns, leading to unpredictable dry seasons and reduced water availability. Additionally, rapid urbanization and tourism development have led to over-extraction of groundwater, causing depletion of aquifers and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources.
For businesses, particularly hotels and resorts, water scarcity translates to operational challenges. Ensuring a consistent water supply for guests, landscaping, and recreational amenities becomes increasingly difficult. In agriculture, farmers grapple with declining water levels for irrigation, affecting crop yields and livelihoods.
SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS
Addressing Bali's water scarcity crisis requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including businesses. Embracing sustainable practices not only helps mitigate the impact of water scarcity but also presents opportunities for businesses to innovate and thrive.
1. Rainwater Harvesting and Storage
One of the most effective ways to combat water scarcity is through rainwater harvesting and storage. By capturing and storing rainwater, businesses can reduce reliance on groundwater and municipal water sources. This approach is particularly beneficial for hotels and resorts with large roof areas and open spaces.
Implementing rainwater harvesting systems can be a cost-effective solution in the long run. Businesses can use the harvested water for landscaping, flushing toilets, and even for non-potable uses in kitchens and laundry facilities.
2. Wastewater Recycling and Treatment
Another sustainable solution is wastewater recycling and treatment. Instead of discharging wastewater into the environment, businesses can treat and recycle it for irrigation, cooling systems, and other non-potable uses.
Advanced wastewater treatment technologies, such as membrane bioreactors and reverse osmosis systems, can effectively remove contaminants and produce high-quality recycled water. By adopting these technologies, businesses not only conserve water but also reduce pollution and protect Bali's fragile ecosystems.
3. Community Engagement and Education
Community engagement and education play a crucial role in addressing Bali's water scarcity crisis. Businesses can collaborate with local communities to raise awareness about water conservation and sustainable practices.
Hosting workshops, organizing community clean-up drives, and supporting local water conservation initiatives can foster a culture of sustainability. Businesses can also partner with schools and universities to integrate water conservation education into curricula, empowering the next generation of environmental stewards.
4. Investment in Green Infrastructure
Investing in green infrastructure, such as green roofs, permeable pavements, and urban green spaces, can help businesses mitigate the impact of water scarcity. Green infrastructure helps reduce stormwater runoff, replenish groundwater supplies, and mitigate the urban heat island effect.
Hotels and resorts can incorporate green roofs and vertical gardens into their design, while agricultural businesses can implement agroforestry and permaculture practices to enhance water retention and soil health.
Bali's water scarcity crisis presents significant challenges for businesses, but with innovation, sustainable practices, and community engagement, there's potential for positive change. By embracing rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, community education, and green infrastructure, businesses can not only mitigate the impact of water scarcity but also contribute to Bali's long-term sustainability and resilience.
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Case Studies
TERRA WATER
Terra Water is a Bali-based company that produces 100% natural ceramic water filters. They operate as a hybrid business, combining elements of social enterprise and foundation work. Their products are sold in retail markets, and they collaborate with non-profits and corporate social responsibility programs to provide filters and public health education to families lacking access to safe drinking water.
WATERBOM
Waterbom implements comprehensive water management practices at its park in Bali. This includes on-site water resource monitoring, with a focus on different park areas and applications. They have nine recharge wells within the park, following a zero-runoff principle for stormwater, promoting complete rainwater recharge to aquifers. Grey water is recycled through a sewage treatment plant (STP) for garden irrigation. Moreover, Waterbom has installed 95% low flow rate taps and water-saving appliances. They've also produced a documentary called "Balancing the Waters" to raise awareness about Bali's water issues and inspire sustainable water management in the tourism industry.
POTATO HEAD
Potato Head has implemented sustainable water management practices. The site has installed a Salt Water Reverse Osmosis Plant (SWRO) to produce drinking quality water through bottling plant to guests. The SWRO draws de-oxygenated sea water from deep wells, so as not to further degrade the levels of water available to the local community. Also employing a grey-water system, which utilizes used water onto the gardens.
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