### History and Current Status of Air Pollution in Bali (1990s–2020s) ### 1990s: Tourism Development and the Emergence of Air Pollution

### History and Current Status of Air Pollution in Bali (1990s–2020s) ### 1990s: Tourism Development and the Emergence of Air Pollution

In 1998, Bali's rapid tourism growth led to increased traffic in major tourist areas like Denpasar, Kuta, and Ubud. Emissions from cars and motorcycles became the primary cause of air pollution. This resulted in rising concentrations of particulate matter (PM10) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), raising concerns about health impacts on residents and tourists. The government considered introducing emission standards and traffic reduction measures, but hesitated to implement concrete countermeasures due to concerns about the impact on the tourism industry. ---

#### 2010s: Strengthened Environmental Measures and Challenges Efforts to address Bali's air pollution problems intensified in the 2010s. In 2012, regulations on emissions from the growing number of motorcycles were tightened, and the introduction of low-pollution fuels and technologies was promoted. Additionally, haze from forest and peatland fires caused high concentrations of particulate matter, leading to transboundary pollution affecting Singapore and Malaysia, necessitating regional cooperation. However, new challenges emerged, including increased traffic due to further tourism development and inadequate waste management systems. --- #### 2020s: Promoting Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Protection

Air pollution in Bali remains a persistent challenge in the 2020s. In urban areas like Denpasar, Kuta, and Seminyak, emissions from transportation, industrial activities, and forest fires are primary sources of pollution. Harmful substances such as PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO) are detected.

The Indonesian government announced a plan in April 2020 aiming for a significant reduction in plastic waste, setting concrete targets: a 70% reduction in marine plastic waste by 2025 and zero plastic pollution by 2040. Furthermore, since January 2019, Denpasar City has implemented measures banning the use of plastic bags and containers.

Furthermore, the environmental protection group Sungai Watch began operations in 2020, undertaking initiatives such as installing barriers to prevent waste from flowing into rivers. As of May 2024, this group reports having prevented over 1.7 million kilograms of waste from entering the ocean.

However, issues persist, including increased traffic due to tourism growth and inadequate waste management systems. Further measures are needed, such as promoting sustainable tourism, introducing renewable energy, and improving public transportation. ---

### Historical Assessment and Future Challenges While Bali's air pollution countermeasures have gradually progressed since the 1990s, balancing tourism development with environmental protection remains a challenge. Drawing on past lessons, it is necessary to pursue sustainable solutions through international cooperation and technological innovation.