In October 2024, the Indonesian government introduced a moratorium on new resort developments in southern Bali to address the growing concern over unregulated tourism and environmental degradation.
This policy aims to curb the conversion of agricultural land—especially rice fields, or "sawah"—into commercial developments like villas and resorts.
As a company that provides reclaimed wood decking, flooring, and building materials, Kaltimber operates within the construction sector, indirectly contributing to Bali’s rapid transformation. While our commitment to sustainability ensures that our materials come from structures slated for demolition, we recognize that growth—even with eco-friendly solutions—must be managed thoughtfully to protect the island’s cultural identity.
Understanding the Impacts of Unchecked Development on Bali’s Heritage
For decades, Bali’s tourism boom has driven rapid urbanization, especially in areas like Kuta, Canggu, Uluwatu, and Seminyak. An estimated 2,000 hectares of rice paddies are lost each year, diminishing not only Bali’s natural landscapes but also its cultural heritage. Rice cultivation is an integral part of Balinese life, supported by the subak irrigation system—designated as a UNESCO cultural heritage. The conversion of these lands into resorts and villas has eroded this traditional way of life, straining local ecosystems.
Beyond cultural loss, overdevelopment has led to practical issues, including traffic congestion, water shortages, and rising pollution levels. The shift from agriculture to tourism has also threatened food security, as fewer resources are allocated to growing crops for local communities.
The government's moratorium aims to halt new projects, giving Bali time to assess its development trajectory. The focus is now shifting from quantity to quality tourism, promoting the restoration and renovation of existing structures over new builds.
Kaltimber's Role in Promoting Sustainable Construction Practices
At Kaltimber, we specialise in reclaimed wood materials, sourcing from old structures slated for demolition—ensuring no new trees are cut down for our products. Our offerings, such as decking, flooring, and cladding, represent an eco-conscious alternative to virgin timber, promoting a circular economy that reduces waste. However, we acknowledge that as part of the construction industry, our materials may contribute to the expansion of Bali’s urban footprint, even when used sustainably.
The new moratorium challenges builders, developers, and suppliers to rethink how they approach construction. Rather than expanding into green spaces, the industry must prioritise reusing and repurposing materials in renovation projects. Kaltimber’s products align perfectly with this shift, offering sustainable solutions that help minimise environmental impact while maintaining architectural beauty.
The Path Forward: Renovation Over Expansion
The resort moratorium reflects a broader shift toward responsible tourism and mindful development. Bali’s future lies in preserving its unique character and natural beauty while meeting the needs of modern tourism. Developers and homeowners are increasingly turning to sustainable materials for renovations, and reclaimed wood offers both aesthetic appeal and eco-friendly benefits. Using materials like reclaimed Borneo ironwood not only extends the life of valuable resources but also reduces the carbon footprint of new construction projects.
Some developers like ReVive even renovate old buildings to create architectural wonders.
At Kaltimber, we believe that the answer lies in thoughtful development—using reclaimed materials to transform existing spaces rather than expanding into untouched areas. This approach supports the preservation of Bali’s agricultural landscapes while allowing for sustainable growth in the tourism and residential sectors.
Conclusion: A Shared Responsibility for the Future of Bali
The resort moratorium is a necessary step toward preserving Bali’s cultural identity and natural environment. As a supplier of sustainable construction materials, Kaltimber supports this shift toward renovation and restoration, encouraging developers to build with mindfulness and eco-consciousness.
Our mission goes beyond selling reclaimed wood—we strive to promote a more sustainable construction industry that respects the communities and environments it touches. While we are proud of our contributions to sustainable building practices, we also recognize the importance of policies like the moratorium to curb overdevelopment and encourage balanced, thoughtful growth.
Through collaborative efforts between the government, developers, and suppliers, Bali can maintain its cultural charm and environmental integrity for generations to come. Kaltimber is committed to being part of that journey—helping build a future where sustainability and preservation go hand in hand.