Improper waste management is a major threat to the beauty and livelihood of tourist destinations in Indonesia. Addressing this issue is crucial for preserving the natural allure that attracts visitors and sustains local economies. Recently, Wise Steps Foundation had the privilege of participating in an impactful International Collaboration on Sustainable Tourism in Community Services event, held on the picturesque island of Lombok.
Event Overview
Hosted by Politeknik Pariwisata Lombok, this event brought together key stakeholders – government representatives, NGOs, academics, and local champions – all united by a common goal: tackling waste management challenges in Lombok’s booming tourism sector.
Activities and Focus Areas
Over four days, participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to foster collaboration and generate solutions. These included productive discussions, field observations, and workshops focused on three key areas: Gili Trawangan, Kuta Mandalika, and Sembalun. The approach was comprehensive, aiming to understand and address the unique waste management issues faced by each location.
Key Aspects of the Initiative
1. Multi-Stakeholder Approach
By bringing together diverse perspectives, the event ensured a thorough understanding of waste management issues. Participants included local community leaders, environmental experts, and tourism professionals, all contributing their unique insights.
2. Data-Driven Solutions
Active data collection and analysis were central to the initiative. This included gathering input from local stakeholders and incorporating ongoing efforts by government representatives. The data collected provided a strong foundation for developing actionable plans.
3. Collaborative Action
Beyond identifying problems, the focus was on collaborative planning to develop actionable solutions. Workshops facilitated the sharing of ideas and best practices, leading to the creation of realistic and effective action plans.
4. Policy Influence
The resulting action plans and recommendations aim to directly influence waste management policies for each destination. This approach ensures that the solutions developed are not only practical but also sustainable in the long term.
Outcomes and Next Steps
This collaborative effort yielded several valuable outputs, including:
- Action Plans: Tailored waste management strategies for Gili Trawangan, Kuta Mandalika, and Sembalun.
- Policy Recommendations: Data-driven suggestions to inform sustainable waste management policies.
These outputs will be published in the Abdi Wisata journal and submitted to relevant government bodies, ensuring their impact reaches the decision-makers who can enact real change.
This event is a testament to the power of collaboration in tackling complex challenges. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future for Lombok’s tourism industry. The success of this initiative highlights the importance of collective action and data-driven decision-making in addressing environmental issues.
We invite everyone, from local communities to international tourists, to join us in our efforts to preserve the natural beauty of Lombok. Together, we can ensure that this stunning island remains a cherished destination for generations to come.
