Future of North Bali

We are responsible for writing a travel guidebook about eco- tourism in Bali, the objective of which is to promote environmentally and community-friendly, responsible tourism and restore the degraded image of Bali.

The operation of power plant (PLTGU) in Pemaron, North Bali, will put the whole of Lovina Beach at an extremely high risk of damage to its unique natural habitat. Lovina Beach with its coral reef, stretching until the Maritime National Park on Menjangan Island offers a living space for dolphins and for 3,500 marine species. Therefore, it should be considered a natural environment, which should be protected from any harmful influences.

We are very much concerned that the operation of this power plant will destroy the beauty of the beaches and in particular the coral reef of Lovina.

The local people are fearful and anxious about their future. Are there any programs from the side of the government to take care of these people in case they lose their life resources? Who will be responsible for them and the coming generations?

Just recently, the world was appalled by a disaster in Spain caused by a tanker accident. We honestly hope that a catastrophe like that never occurs in Bali. Are there any funds available for the ecological recovery of the area in case of a calamity?

Nowadays many people talk about ecotourism as a new and highly profitable branch of income in tourism. Bali could, due to its relatively small size and natural beauty and resources, be an example to the world. If alternative renewable energy like solar power, wind, waves, water, bio mass etc., is possible, why not at least consider building a power plant with better technology in an appropriate location?

It seems hard to comprehend why PT Indonesia Power is building a power plant in the north of Bali, operated with oil, which has to be delivered from the east of Bali, to provide the south of Bali with electricity.

ANNE GOUYON
Editor-in-chief
The Natural Guide
www.naturalguide.org
Jakarta