Bali Plans Phase-Out of Landfill Model as Suwung Site Set to Close by 2027
Bali’s provincial government is preparing to phase out large landfill sites such as the Suwung Landfill as part of wider efforts to reform waste management across the island. Governor Wayan Koster has called on districts and cities to stop relying on landfill models by 2027, citing environmental and public health risks linked to the long‑standing site in Denpasar. According to official reporting, the province is also advancing new waste‑processing initiatives, including a waste‑to‑energy facility designed to reduce landfill dependence.
Bali Plans Phase-Out of Traditional Landfill Model
Speaking at a Bali Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) plenary session, Governor Koster said that the provincial government intends to end the landfill model represented by Suwung. The site, which receives waste from Denpasar and Badung, has grown significantly over time and is widely viewed as unsustainable.
“Starting in 2027, the Suwung Landfill model should no longer exist in other districts. The BKK (special financial assistance) provided in 2027 will be intended for waste management in each region,” — Wayan Koster, Governor of Bali
The governor said that provincial financial support will prioritise waste management systems within districts and municipalities. Regions that fail to take responsibility for local waste management may not receive the special financial assistance.
The move reflects a broader national focus on technology, innovation and sustainability in Indonesia’s development agenda, including initiatives that highlight how smart technologies and innovation are supporting sustainable development across the country.
Environmental and Public Health Concerns at Suwung
The Suwung Landfill has become a major environmental concern in Bali. Authorities have cited pollution risks linked to leachate from the site, which has reportedly contaminated nearby sea and water sources.
“The Head of the Bali Environment Agency has been named a suspect in the management of the Suwung Landfill because the leachate is polluting the sea and water sources, threatening public health. Therefore, this must be ended; there is no other option,” — Wayan Koster, Governor of Bali
The issue has also drawn attention after the former head of Bali’s Environment Agency, Made Teja, was prosecuted over failures in landfill management. Provincial authorities say the case underscores the need for stronger governance and oversight in waste handling.
Restrictions and Closure Timeline for Suwung Landfill
Operational changes at the Suwung site will begin before its final closure. From 31 March 2026, the landfill will only accept inorganic and residual waste. The facility is scheduled to close completely on 1 August 2026.
To prepare for the transition, the Bali Provincial Government is working with the Denpasar City Government and the Badung District Government to expand local waste treatment initiatives. These efforts include programmes that encourage communities to process organic waste at the source.
Waste-to-Energy Facility Planned in South Denpasar
Alongside landfill reforms, Bali plans to introduce Pengolahan Sampah menjadi Energi Listrik (PSEL), a waste‑to‑energy technology designed to convert waste into electricity. The facility will be built on a six‑hectare site owned by PT Pelindo in South Denpasar with support from the Indonesian central government.
According to the governor, construction has begun and a groundbreaking ceremony is expected by the end of June 2026. The project is planned to take approximately 1.5 years to complete and will process at least 1,200 tonnes of waste each day.
Officials expect the facility to reduce the risk of waste accumulation similar to that seen at Suwung and support more sustainable waste governance across Bali. The initiative aligns with broader national efforts to modernise infrastructure and governance systems as Indonesia advances its digital and economic transformation, including reforms highlighted in initiatives to strengthen digital systems supporting national development.
