5 MIN READ
02-01-2025
Coastal and Mangrove Cleanup Around the Bago Estuary
Dika, 4ocean Bali Content Correspondent
On February 1, 2025, the 4ocean Java River Team set out on a mission to clean up the Bago Estuary, a critical habitat facing constant pollution due to the western winds pushing in plastic waste. The team, led by Captain Aby Amanda Putra, embarked on this cleanup journey via boat, navigating from the Setail River to the estuary. With an arsenal of cleanup tools—including sacks, ropes, trash nets, and fuel tanks—they were determined to make an impact.
The journey itself took approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, requiring the crew to first tackle waste in the Setail River before progressing to the estuary. Their efforts targeted waste that had accumulated along the estuary’s shoreline, as well as plastic debris entangled in mangrove roots and buried beneath the sand. By patrolling the waterways, removing plastic waste from the mangroves, and transporting the collected trash back to the dock for weighing and processing, the team worked tirelessly to restore the natural beauty of the area.
Through this intensive effort, the 4ocean Java team removed a staggering 1,955.6 lbs. of waste from the Bago Estuary. This included 1,256 lbs. of plastic waste and 699.6 lbs. of non-plastic debris. Among the discarded items were bags, mattresses, chairs, bottles, shoes, and sandals—testament to the severity of pollution in the area. Each piece collected was a reminder of the urgent need for sustainable waste management and plastic reduction.
Cleaning up the estuary was no easy feat. The team encountered several challenges, including strong, unpredictable winds that made navigating the boat difficult and forced them to move cautiously to maintain balance. Collecting floating plastic waste proved tricky, as currents carried it further away, making retrieval a constant battle. The team also had to carefully extract plastic waste wrapped around mangrove roots, using cutters to ensure the delicate ecosystem remained unharmed. Additionally, plastic buried beneath the sand required extra effort to unearth and remove effectively.
For Biatra Mardianto, being part of the cleanup effort is more than just a job—it’s a mission with deep personal meaning. “I am very proud to be part of the 4ocean family. This is a moment where I learn to be someone who brings value to others. For me, this job is not only enjoyable but also has a significant positive impact. Through real action, I can contribute to keeping the environment clean while spreading awareness about the importance of cleanliness. I have experienced many positive impacts, especially for the local communities affected by plastic waste. I am truly happy to be part of 4ocean Java because every time we do a cleanup, I know that the results can be enjoyed by many in the form of a cleaner environment. I love you, 4ocean!”
Plastic waste remains a serious threat to the environment, harming marine life, polluting water sources, and disrupting fragile ecosystems. The work of the 4ocean Java team is a vital part of the ongoing fight to keep our oceans and rivers clean. Unfortunately, awareness of the dangers of plastic pollution is still low, making hands-on cleanup efforts and community engagement crucial to inspiring change.
By leading these efforts, 4ocean Java continues to set an example of environmental responsibility, showing that collective action can make a lasting difference. The team remains dedicated to their mission, proving that every cleanup counts in the battle against plastic pollution.
