Disposal of raw waste directly to the sea by CBR Resort in Jungutbatu, Lembongan, is not only affecting marine biota but also threatens economic condition of local residents, especially seaweed farmers. “Disposal of waste without prior treatment can affect growth of seaweed. As the moment, problems of seaweed cultivation is not only caused by organic pests but also chemical pollutants”, local Residents of Lembongan told Bali Post reporter.

Local residents believe that CBR is not the only one who disposes waste directly to the sea due to absence of adequate waste processing system as reported by the inspectors of Klungkung Environment Office, but also BK Resort and LB Villa Resort. The last two were found installing large pipe directly to the sea, which was believed to drain their waste.

They have often brought their concern toward the village head of Jungbatu, Wayan Yastika, who confirmed complains of his people about waste disposal of hotels which negatively affected their seaweed cultivation, and potentially affects marine biota and tourism potentials in the area. “Since I took my post eight months ago, I have inspected hotels and resorts in Jungbatu”, he said.

He also confirmed that his people is suspecting BK Resort and LB Villa Resort for disposing waste directly to the sea. “If they don’t for what purpose they installed large pipes going down to the sea. When I inspected they said it was air duct. It did not make any sense, air ducts go upward, not down to the sea”, he explained whilst also informing that the pipe was buried underground.

Yastika further questioned the policy of related institutions who were responsible for issuing license of CB Resort and LB Villa Resort as in fact they do not have adequate waste processing system. Ironically, as Yastika mentioned, in assessing proposal to build and operate various accommodation facilities, the government often ignores village authorities. “I have once visited the Licensing Office of Klungkung to remind them that the process should follow certain procedure, which includes recommendation from local village authority”, he said.

He also mentioned that there are many investors build their business by using the name of local residents. Government is suffering a significant loss in this practice, especially with regard to tax income. Whilst he admitted that hotels and resorts in Jungbatu have brought significant contribution to the village, including including 50% local recruitment, he rightly said “all of those do not mean anything if their presence creates serious damages”, he said.

Head of Licensing Office of Klungkung. Putu Suarta confirmed that licensing proposals are processed in his office. However involvement of village authorities have never been terminated. Village authorities are involved in field inspection.