5 MIN READ
11-22-2024
Treasure Among the Trash: Restoring Marine Health at Rening Beach
Kubik, 4ocean Bali Content Correspondent
On November 13, 2024, off the coast of Rening Beach in Bali, 4ocean's dedicated team embarked on a mission to tackle marine debris. What began as a routine operation quickly turned into an unforgettable day for the crew.
Setting out from Pengambengan Harbor early in the morning, the team spread out across the water to scan for floating debris. It was Wahyudi who first spotted a 600-meter-long line of marine waste drifting in the currents—a heartbreaking yet vital discovery. Guided by Captain Jarwo, the team steered their vessel toward the debris, and soon the pontoon team rallied other crews to the site.
For nearly three hours, the crew worked tirelessly, clearing over 1,070 pounds of plastic waste, including cups, PET bottles, straws, and oil containers.
One poignant moment came when they discovered an oil container encrusted with coral—a sobering reminder of how long the container had polluted the ocean.
“Seeing marine life adapt to trash is both fascinating and tragic,” reflected crew member Pani. “It’s a stark reminder of the impact of our actions on the natural world.”
In a touching turn of events, the crew found a sea turtle in distress tangled among the debris. The exhausted turtle was brought onto the boat and placed in a water-filled container to recuperate.
After two hours of rest, it regained its strength, and the crew carefully cleaned its shell of parasites before releasing it back into the ocean. Watching the turtle swim away was a moment of joy and fulfillment, a powerful symbol of what their efforts were truly about.
The cleanup wasn’t without its difficulties. Strong winds and unpredictable weather demanded the crew’s full attention and teamwork. At times, the boats filled with debris, requiring careful coordination to transfer waste between vessels.
Despite these obstacles, the team’s determination never wavered. Their efforts were accompanied by cheerful singing—a trademark of 4ocean’s resilient crews.
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“Plastic waste tangling in nets and clogging engines is a daily struggle,” shared Captain Jarwo. “This work isn’t just about cleaning the ocean—it’s about protecting our way of life.”
Through collaborative cleanups like this, 4ocean hopes to raise awareness and inspire communities to take action before it’s too late.
Marine pollution is a solvable crisis, but it requires collective action. Every piece of trash removed is a step toward restoring balance to our oceans and ensuring a sustainable future for all who depend on them.