Environment Care Rinjani
Mount Rinjani, located on the island of Lombok in Indonesia, is one of the most active volcanoes in the region and a popular trekking destination. Its stunning landscapes, including a crater lake (Segara Anak) and hot springs, make it a key natural attraction. However, the increasing popularity of tourism has put pressure on the environment. To ensure the sustainability of Mount Rinjani’s ecosystem, there are several ways to care for its environment
These guidelines help minimize the impact of your visit on the natural environment and also on other visitors. Help to keep the park unspoiled for future visitors.
1. Research Eco-Friendly Trekking Companies
Start by searching for reputable trekking companies that emphasize environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism practices. Many companies now specifically market themselves as eco-friendly or green companies. They often follow best practices such as minimizing waste, using local guides, and contributing to conservation efforts.
Don’t book Rinjani trekking with tour operators who don’t care about the sustainability of the Mount Rinjani ecosystem.”
In Lombok, many companies only focus on selling trekking trips without considering the preservation of Mount Rinjani. Therefore, we strongly advise you to be more careful and thorough when choosing the company you will book your trekking tour with. If you choose the wrong company, you will indirectly support or contribute to environmental damage and the accumulation of waste on Mount Rinjani.
2. Waste Management and Reducing Litter
Carry out all waste: Trekking groups should be responsible for packing out all trash, including organic waste (like fruit peels). It’s crucial to bring trash bags and use them properly.
Use designated waste bins: There are waste disposal facilities at some campsites, but they may not be enough. Use these facilities and avoid leaving waste behind.
Ban on single-use plastics: Tourists are encouraged to avoid single-use plastics, which can harm wildlife and pollute the environment. Bottles and packaging should be reusable or biodegradable.
3. Respect Local Flora and Fauna
Do not disturb wildlife: Mount Rinjani is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Rinjani scops owl. Respect wildlife by maintaining distance and not feeding animals.
Stay on designated paths: Trampling on fragile ecosystems can destroy local plant species. Stick to established trails to avoid damaging sensitive areas.
4. Minimizing Environmental Footprint
Reduce energy consumption: Use solar-powered lights or headlamps instead of burning fuel. Avoid using excessive lighting during the trek.
Eco-friendly products: Opt for biodegradable soap and personal care items. When washing dishes or bathing in natural water sources, use environmentally friendly products to avoid contaminating the lake and streams.
5. Sustainable Trekking Practices
Use certified trekking guides: Make sure your guide is certified and practices environmentally responsible tourism. Certified guides are more likely to follow sustainability principles and educate trekkers on responsible practices.
Follow the Leave No Trace principle: Trekking groups should embrace “Leave No Trace” principles, which include avoiding campfires, taking only pictures, and leaving only footprints.
6. Reforestation and Conservation Efforts
Support local conservation projects: Some organizations and local communities are working to protect and conserve Mount Rinjani’s ecosystem. Tourists can contribute by supporting these initiatives, whether through donations or participation in reforestation programs.
Avoid disturbing protected areas: The Mount Rinjani National Park is a protected area. Tourists should avoid venturing off established routes and respect park boundaries.
7. Education and Awareness
Learn about the environment: Educate yourself and fellow trekkers about the importance of preserving Mount Rinjani’s natural environment. Understanding the challenges faced by the ecosystem can help foster a greater sense of responsibility.
Encourage responsible tourism: Spread awareness about eco-friendly trekking practices, the impact of tourism on the environment, and the importance of sustainable tourism.
8. Support Local Communities
Engage with local communities: Many local people from Lombok depend on tourism for their livelihoods. By supporting local businesses and hiring local guides, trekkers help ensure that the benefits of tourism reach the community, which can also provide incentives for environmental protection.
9. Monitoring and Restoration
Participate in or support environmental monitoring: The local government, NGOs, and environmental groups may conduct monitoring programs to assess the health of the ecosystem. Tourists and trekkers can contribute by being mindful of the regulations and reporting any environmental damage they notice.
10. Keep lake clean lakes clean :
Wash the well away from the water source by talking water in a container. Soap and detergent are harmful to the creatures that live in the streams alike, drain used water into the ground.
11. Bury toilet waste :
In areas without toilet facilities, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from waterways, tracts, campsites, and shelters. Take care with fires. Portable fuel stoves are less harmful to the environment and are more efficient than fires. If you must use a fire, keep it small and make sure that the fire is out before leaving by dousing it with water and checking the ashes.
12. Respect cultural and natural heritage :
Help protect the spiritual and historical significance of Mt. Rinjani by respecting our local culture. Conserve wildlife and plants of the National Park by not removing anything.
13. Consider other visitors :
Walk quietly through the forest so that you do not disturb the wildlife that you and others have come to see.
14. Enjoy your visit :
Enjoy your visit and before leaving the area take one last look – will the next visitor know that you have been here?