Sungai Watch is an environmental organization with the mission to halt the influx of plastic into the oceans. Registered as a Yayasan in Indonesia and a 501(c)3 in the United States, it is also a certified partner of One Percent for the Planet. Founded in 2020 by Gary, Kelly, and Sam Bencheghib in Bali, Indonesia, Sungai Watch has grown into a team of over 100 passionate “river warriors” who work daily to develop solutions against plastic pollution.

Credits: sungai.watch

Expansion and Achievements

Thanks to the support of donors, who in 2023 contributed over 1.3 million dollars, Sungai Watch prevented 844,936 kilograms of plastic from reaching the ocean. The organization rapidly expanded its work from northern Bali to eastern Java, relying on an incredible team of 119 “river warriors” who cleaned 380 rivers and hundreds of kilometers of coastline.

Beyond Cleaning: Data and Community Engagement

Sungai Watch extends its efforts beyond mere cleanup efforts. In 2023, it doubled its data collection, documenting 537,189 pieces of plastic, advocating for improvements in single-use packaging, and involving local communities in waste management. Weekly cleanups and emergency interventions were organized at illegal dumpsites and riverbanks to prevent plastic from entering rivers.

Credits: sungai.watch

Foundations for Growth and Future Projects

Last year laid the groundwork for the organization’s scalability. With ambitious plans for 2024, including expansion to Jakarta and the launch of a recycled plastic product, Sungai Watch aims to further reduce plastic in rivers and oceans.

Engagement and Sustainability

Sungai Watch’s waste barriers accounted for 60% of the total waste collection in 2023. These barriers not only prevent plastic from reaching the ocean but also raise community awareness. The organization also works upstream, preventing littering by directly involving local communities in cleanup activities.

Sungai Watch demonstrates how local actions can have a global impact. With the goal of installing 1,000 barriers in the world’s most polluted rivers, the organization invites global participation. Donations, volunteering, and reporting polluted rivers are just a few ways anyone can contribute.

For more information and to learn how you can contribute, visit Sungai Watch.

Credits: sungai.watch