Eyewitness – DENPASAR
The impacts of climate change are increasingly felt across Bali, underscored by catastrophic flash floods that struck the region on September 10, 2025. Torrential rainfall triggering widespread flooding serves as a stark warning of the escalating climate crisis, highlighting an urgent need for multi-stakeholder collaboration—from government bodies to local communities—to bolster mitigation and adaptation measures.
These key concerns were highlighted during a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) for Climate Week 2026 held in Denpasar on Friday (11/9). Aisyah Madeleine, Communications Specialist for the Bali Net-Zero Emissions Coalition, emphasized that climate change in Bali manifests as interconnected, multi-sectoral environmental challenges. Climate risks are no longer confined to South Bali, as every region on the island faces unique vulnerabilities.
Madeleine pointed to worsening coastal erosion in Kusamba Village, Klungkung Regency, which directly threatens the livelihoods of local fishermen. Meanwhile, urban centers like Denpasar grapple with recurring floods, waste accumulation, traffic congestion, and declining groundwater reserves. In hilly regions such as Gianyar, high-intensity rainfall frequently triggers deadly landslides.
According to Madeleine, the energy sector remains Bali’s largest contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, making clean energy transition and resource efficiency top collective priorities. “The energy sector accounts for the highest emissions contribution in Bali,” she stated.
In addition to energy production, suboptimal waste management—particularly open dumping practices—releases substantial methane emissions.
Compounding these threats are risks of land subsidence and coastal inundation, which could reach heights over two meters in East Bali if left unaddressed. Environmental degradation poses a direct threat to the island’s economic stability, which relies heavily on tourism.
The session also underscored the critical role of journalism and media in driving climate action. A capacity-building initiative aims to empower journalists covering Bali’s climate issues through research, technical training, and collaborative networks. Furthermore, the discussion outlined plans for Bali Climate Week on October 13–17, 2026, serving as a catalyst for cross-sector collaboration toward achieving the island’s Net-Zero Emissions 2045 target.
Responding to climate change requires proactive measures that prevent further degradation while enhancing disaster resilience through robust mitigation and adaptation strategies. Priority actions for Bali Province include aggressive reforestation efforts to expand forest cover and increase natural carbon sinks.
Reporter: Daniel Herry
