DENPASAR, BALINEWS — Six strategic areas in Bali have been designated as Low-Emission Zones under the Kerthi Bhumi Satwika initiative, aimed at promoting more environmentally sustainable tourism. The policy covers inland tourist destinations, coastal areas, and an urban cultural heritage district.
Bali Governor Wayan Koster designated Ubud, the Nusa Penida Islands, Nusa Dua, Kuta, Sanur, and the Gajah Mada Cultural Heritage Area in Denpasar as Low-Emission Zones. The program is scheduled to run from 2026 to 2030.
The initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, accelerate the adoption of clean energy, promote environmentally friendly transportation, and protect ecosystems.
Each designated area will have a development focus tailored to its characteristics. Ubud will prioritize culture- and environment-based tourism, while the Nusa Penida Islands will focus on preserving island and coastal ecosystems.
Nusa Dua, Kuta, and Sanur will serve as strategic areas for encouraging environmentally responsible tourism practices. Meanwhile, the Gajah Mada Cultural Heritage Area in Denpasar will focus on integrating historic preservation with sustainable urban development.
The program also encourages reductions in single-use plastic consumption, improved waste management at the source, and the protection of coastal areas, mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds.
Implementation of the Kerthi Bhumi Satwika initiative will involve local governments, tourism businesses, traditional villages, community groups, and the wider public.
The policy forms part of the Bali Provincial Government's efforts to balance economic growth and tourism development with environmental protection.
However, the initiative's impact will depend on how effectively the measures are implemented and whether they deliver measurable reductions in emissions across the designated areas.
