Supporting Cleaner Waters: Bookinglayer and Sungai Watch Collaboration

Updated: 17 Apr 2024

At Bookinglayer, our connection to the environment is intrinsic, not just as a business but as a champion of the adventure and wellness travel industry. While we may be a software company, our work is deeply entwined with the natural world. From surf camps to mountain biking tours to scenic yoga retreats, the natural environment enables our clients to create unforgettable experiences for travelers. 

As such, our commitment to sustainability is not just a corporate responsibility; it's a reflection of the values shared by us and our diverse clientele. And, one way that we support the environment is through our pledge to 1% for the Planet. 

This past year, through our commitment to 1% for the Planet, we partnered with Sungai Watch, an organization on a mission to stop plastic from entering the ocean. As a result of this collaboration, we were proud to have the opportunity to sponsor a new river barrier in the Kerobokan area. 

With efforts currently focused on Bali, Indonesia, Sungai Watch cleans up the most polluted rivers, collecting trash before it can enter the ocean. The rivers of Bali, like many natural wonders around the world, are not just scenic backdrops; they are lifelines of ecosystems and local communities.
A Sungai Watch Team member performed a Balinese ceremony for the barrier installation.

What Is a River Barrier? 

Sungai Watch’s river barriers are simple yet innovative systems that stop the progression of trash while not inhibiting the flow and shape of the river itself. 

To ensure that the impact of each barrier is maximized, local teams of two to three people clear the trash from each barrier daily. And these daily efforts can add up to make an enormous difference. As cited in the 2022 Impact Report from Sungai Watch, river barriers can collect between two to 200 kg of non-organic waste every day, depending on the exact location.

Where Does All the Trash Go?

Once the waste is collected, it is loaded into a truck and taken to one of Sungai Watch’s processing facilities. There, it is sorted, logged and recycled.

Rather than simply getting rid of the trash that comes in, Sungai Watch takes things a step further; they collect data about each item and compile reports to identify the biggest polluters. For example, in 2022, the organization found, “10 parent companies responsible for plastic pollution in Indonesia, with 26% of the waste items being unidentified.”

Last year, Sungai Watch also launched a new initiative, Sungai Design. Under this wing of the organization, plastic waste will be upcycled into artwork and furniture. 

Not only does this ensure plastic is recycled purposefully and does not reenter the waterways, but it also helps secure Sungai Watch’s continued efforts. The sale of the furniture and artwork from Sungai Design will help ensure that the organization is financially sustainable.

What’s Next?

Javi, our Customer Success Lead, had the opportunity to attend the barrier installation. 

By sponsoring a river barrier in Bali, we're taking a stand to protect vital waterways. This initiative is more than a project; it's a testament to our belief that even as a software company, we have the power – and the duty – to make a positive impact on the environment. 

Next year, we look forward to finding impactful initiatives to support and new ways we can make a difference in the communities that we and our clients serve. 

Do you know of an organization we should support? Reach out and let us know! 

A 5% Discount for 1% for the Planet

In an effort to expand our collective impact, Bookinglayer offers a 5 percent discount to fellow members of 1% for the Planet. This can be applied to any of Bookinglayer's pricing plans. Aside from a Bookinglayer discount, there are other benefits of joining 1% for the Planet, such as appealing to eco-conscious travelers. To learn more about taking the pledge, or to join the movement, check out the 1% for the Planet website.