Starting in 2025, all trekkers will be required to repackage their food and beverages into reusable containers before their ascent. This regulation aligns with the Reuse and Refill approach, ensuring that Mount Rinjani remains pristine for future generations while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Mount Rinjani, one of Indonesia’s most iconic peaks, is taking a firm stand against plastic pollution with the launch of the Go Rinjani Zero Waste 2025 initiative. This ambitious program, spearheaded by the Balai Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani (BTNGR) in collaboration with guides, porters, local communities, and other stakeholders, aims to significantly reduce waste—particularly plastic—left behind by climbers.
RELEVANT SUSTAINABLE GOALS
Starting in 2025, all trekkers will be required to repackage their food and beverages into reusable containers before their ascent. This regulation aligns with the Reuse and Refill approach, ensuring that Mount Rinjani remains pristine for future generations while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
The Growing Problem of Waste on Rinjani
Mount Rinjani, with its breathtaking crater lake and stunning views, has long been a favorite among local and international climbers. However, the growing popularity of the trek has also led to a pressing issue—waste accumulation. Every year, tons of plastic bottles, food wrappers, and discarded trekking gear litter the trails, threatening the fragile ecosystem of the national park.
Past cleanup efforts, though commendable, have not been enough to keep up with the increasing number of visitors. This new initiative is designed to tackle the problem at its root by encouraging waste prevention rather than waste collection.
Under the Go Rinjani Zero Waste 2025 program, all climbers will be expected to:
- Pack smart – Food and drinks must be repackaged into reusable containers before trekking.
- Carry out what you bring in – All personal waste must be taken back down.
- Support sustainable tourism – Climbers are encouraged to educate fellow trekkers and participate in conservation efforts.
Guides and porters will also play a crucial role in educating trekkers, ensuring that the new regulations are followed, and maintaining the integrity of the mountain’s ecosystem.
A Collective Effort for Conservation
This initiative is not just about cleanliness—it is about protecting biodiversity and ensuring long-term sustainability. The program involves a wide range of stakeholders, including the Rinjani Circle Tourism Image Forum, trekking associations, local businesses, and environmental groups, all working together to ensure its success.
By embracing the Zero Waste principle, Mount Rinjani aims to set an example for sustainable adventure tourism across Indonesia.
For trekkers, this is more than just a new rule—it’s a call to action. Every visitor to Mount Rinjani has a role to play in preserving its beauty. By adopting responsible trekking habits and spreading awareness, climbers can help protect one of Indonesia’s natural treasures.
Lead image courtesy of Denys Kutsevalov’s Images via Canva(Crater of Mount Rinjani)
