5 MIN READ
01-09-2025
Damage to Facilities and Ocean Pollution at Ria Bomo Beach
Ucik, 4ocean Bali Content Correspondent
On December 26, 2025, Ria Bomo Beach in Banyuwangi, Indonesia, became a stark reminder of nature’s force and human impact on the environment. Heavy flooding, driven by extreme weather, surged through the coastline, causing extensive damage to the beach’s facilities and leaving behind a staggering amount of debris.
The aftermath was heartbreaking. Beachside stalls were battered, visitor gazebos and parking areas were left in ruins, and enormous tree trunks lay scattered across the sand. Among the most alarming consequences was the sheer volume of plastic waste carried from the nearby river into the ocean. As floodwaters receded, they left behind a polluted shoreline, reinforcing a harsh reality—mismanaged waste continues to fuel environmental disasters.
Recognizing the urgency, the 4ocean Java team, led by Beach Captain Ari Surya Prayoga (Yoga), swiftly organized a cleanup mission. The task was daunting. The collected waste was soaked and heavy, making transportation an uphill battle. But the team, including Raka Bahtiyan, Chika Candila Raksa, and others, took on the challenge headfirst.
Working methodically, the team began by separating organic waste from inorganic materials, ensuring that each type was properly sorted. They then categorized the debris further, distinguishing between plastic and non-plastic waste. Using super sacks, they secured the collected trash, preparing it for proper disposal. Once everything was packed, they hauled the waste to a weighing station before loading it onto the 4ocean Java truck, marking the final step in their meticulous cleanup process.
By the end of the operation, the numbers told a striking story. The team had removed an astonishing 1,238.66 pounds of plastic waste and 625.99 pounds of non-plastic debris. Altogether, their efforts resulted in a total cleanup yield of 1,864.65 pounds—tangible proof of their dedication to restoring the environment.
Despite the success, the challenge of waste mismanagement in the region remains a pressing concern. The flood made it clear that local rivers continue to be treated as dumping grounds, with both organic and inorganic waste flowing directly into the sea.
For Yoga and the team, the mission was more than just a cleanup—it was about restoring a beloved destination for the local community.
“Ria Bomo Beach is a favorite weekend spot, but the flooding has left it in a terrible state. It’s not just an environmental issue—it affects businesses, families, and everyone who loves this place. We’re committed to bringing the beach back to its original beauty so that visitors and locals can enjoy it again.” – Ari Surya Prayoga (Yoga), 4ocean Java Team Captain
The operation was not without difficulties. The team had to wrestle with large tree trunks entangled in plastic debris, a task that proved time-consuming and physically demanding. Additionally, the weight of the soaked waste made transport difficult, prompting the team to use motorcycles to move sacks efficiently to the weighing area.
While the 4ocean Java team’s efforts made a significant difference, the root cause of pollution—the improper disposal of waste—remains an urgent issue. Many residents along the riverbanks continue to use waterways as dumping sites, leading to repeated pollution and increased vulnerability to flooding.
To truly protect Ria Bomo Beach and similar coastal areas, collective action is needed. Increased public awareness, better waste management systems, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations are crucial.
The 4ocean Java team remains dedicated to the fight, knowing that every cleanup brings them one step closer to a cleaner, healthier ocean.
