Composting in Bali: Why It’s Important and How to Get Started
Composting has been a big part of my life long before my days here in Bali, but it’s especially vital here. Bali faces a growing waste crisis. Our landfills have been overfilled for years, and last year alone, numerous landfill fires broke out, filling the air with toxic smoke and polluting the environment. These fires are often caused by the spontaneous combustion of methane gases, which build up as organic waste decomposes under pressure in landfills—a tragic reminder of why managing waste responsibly is crucial, especially in a place like Bali.
In an island community where resources and land are limited, composting is an incredibly impactful practice. It diverts waste from overfilled landfills, reduces methane emissions, and turns kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil that can support local gardens and farms. Composting is easier than many people think, and in a tropical climate, it’s faster too, thanks to the natural warmth and humidity that speed up decomposition.
How I Compost in Bali
Living in the tropics means pests like ants are pretty common, so I prefer to keep our compost in the freezer to avoid inviting them into the kitchen. Here’s how I do it:
Collecting Scraps in the Freezer: I keep a large Tupperware container in the freezer, and as I cook or empty the sink catcher, I simply fill it up. Freezing the compost also keeps any odors at bay.
Transferring to a Larger Bin: Once the Tupperware is full, I take it outside to our larger compost bin. I’m lucky enough to have access to an affordable composting service here that comes weekly to pick up the full bin and replace it with an empty one. This makes it easy and keeps the process consistent.
DIY Composting: At our previous home, I managed composting myself. I created a trench for organic waste, flipped it regularly, and experimented with making my own bokashi compost for our larger garden. Bokashi composting is a fantastic option for tropical climates—it’s anaerobic and can be buried directly in the soil to enrich it.
Though I don’t have as much land to work with now, I’m grateful for the local composting companies and happy to support their efforts. One day, I’d love to start my own composting setup again or continue educating others on how simple and impactful composting can be.
Why Composting Matters
Composting is more than just a way to dispose of kitchen scraps. It’s a way to actively reduce waste, support soil health, and prevent harmful gases from entering the atmosphere. In a place like Bali, where the waste infrastructure is limited, composting can make a huge difference. Each household that composts helps relieve pressure on landfills, reduces pollution, and contributes to a healthier, more sustainable environment.
So if you’re on the fence about composting, I encourage you to give it a try. It’s simpler than it sounds, and you might be surprised at how much waste you’re able to divert from the trash. Whether you start with a freezer container or explore local composting services, every little bit helps. Let’s do what we can to protect this beautiful island and move towards a sustainable future.
Getting Started with Composting
If you’re interested in starting your own compost, here are a few simple tips to make it easy and effective:
Freezer Storage: Keep a container in the freezer for food scraps if you’re worried about pests.
Composting Services: Look into local composting companies that can pick up your compost and handle the process for you.
DIY Options: If you have outdoor space, consider creating a compost trench or experimenting with bokashi composting.
Composting is a small act that can have a big impact—let’s take the step together.
