FEATURES • DESTINATIONS
Discovering Sustainability at Four Seasons Bali
Hydroponic Garden:
Enhancing Freshness and Sustainability on a Remote Island
Tri Hita Karana, which translates to "The Three Causes of Happiness," embodies the idea that harmony can be achieved when humanity, God and the environment are in balance. Located in Bali's central highlands near Ubud and Jimbaran Bay, Four Seasons Resorts Bali offers luxurious retreats that celebrate the island's rich cultural heritage. The resorts are committed to reducing their environmental footprint and are proud to be recognized as responsible operators in the tourism industry.
June 2024 • Words by The Punch • Photography by Four Seasons Bali
"Tri Hita Karana is a philosophy that we wholeheartedly implement at the resort. It signifies the “three causes of a good life."
ECO-FRIENDLY ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
At Four Seasons Bali, sustainability is a core principle that informs every aspect of the property, starting with its construction practices. The architecture is designed to harmonize with the natural environment, using locally sourced materials and traditional construction techniques. This approach not only reduces environmental impact, but also honors Balinese heritage, as evidenced by the prominent use of bamboo and recycled wood. These materials significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with construction.
They prioritize energy efficiency throughout its resorts by harnessing abundant solar energy and utilize innovative cooling systems that maximize natural ventilation, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.
In addition to energy conservation, Four Seasons Bali is proactive in water management. They use rainwater harvesting systems to collect and efficiently use rainwater throughout their properties. Advanced filtration ensures that purified water is reused whenever possible, promoting sustainable water practices and minimizing waste. These initiatives not only enhance the guest experience with natural beauty, but also contribute positively to the local ecosystem and community resilience.
SUSTAINABLE DINING EXPERIENCE
Culinary excellence at Four Seasons Bali goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship. The resorts are committed to sustainable dining initiatives, emphasizing farm-to-table practices. By sourcing ingredients locally, they support nearby communities and reduce carbon emissions associated with food transport. Guests can indulge in fresh, organic produce grown in the resorts' gardens or sourced from nearby farms that adhere to sustainable farming practices.
Four Seasons Bali promotes sustainable seafood choices by partnering with local fishermen who use responsible fishing methods. This ensures the preservation of marine biodiversity while offering guests a delightful dining experience and also underscores their dedication to environmental conservation and supporting local economies.
BIODIVERSITY & CONSERVATION EFFORTS
Four Seasons Bali is deeply committed to safeguarding Bali's rich biodiversity through proactive conservation efforts. Guests are invited to engage in meaningful experiences at the Role Foundation’s Zero Waste to Ocean community education center. Here, they can take part in various activities such as composting, recycling initiatives, snail farming, and tree planting. These activities serve dual purposes: they actively contribute to the preservation of local ecosystems and support educational programs aimed at children and marginalized women within the community.
The employees also play an active role in environmental stewardship by regularly participating in beach cleanups to protect marine environments, actively contributing to events like Bali’s Biggest Cleanup and International Coastal Cleanup Day. These efforts are integral to maintaining a cleaner and healthier coastal ecosystem, ensuring that Bali's natural beauty and marine life thrive for future generations to enjoy.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & SUPPORT
Four Seasons Bali is dedicated to making a positive impact on local communities through a range of thoughtful initiatives. One such effort involves donating leftover food to Scholars of Sustenance (SOS), a local nonprofit organization that fights hunger across Bali. This initiative not only helps reduce food waste but also provides essential meals to those in need.
At the Ganesha Cultural Centre, the resort fosters Bali’s cultural heritage by hosting workshops led by local artists. Guests can participate in activities such as traditional painting, woodcarving, weaving, and dancing. These workshops not only preserve traditional arts but also create valuable income opportunities for local artisans, contributing to the sustainability of Bali's cultural legacy. Guests at Four Seasons Bali are also treated to complimentary performances of traditional dance and music by local community groups. These cultural displays enrich the guest experience by immersing them in Bali’s vibrant artistic traditions.
The resort contributes to various communities across Bali, providing essential resources to those in need by actively supporting local organizations by donating surplus linen, furniture, equipment, and medical supplies to institutions like Smile Bali, the Indonesian Pediatric Cancer Foundation, and the School for the Deaf.
For guests interested in deeper exploration of Bali's natural, cultural, historical, or UNESCO World Heritage Sites, educational tours are available. These tours not only support local businesses and artisans but also provide insightful experiences that celebrate Bali's rich cultural and natural diversity.
Four Seasons Bali continues to demonstrates its ongoing commitment to supporting and enriching the lives of local communities, ensuring sustainable development and cultural preservation across the region.
FOUR SEASONS SAYAN, UBUD
FOUR SEASONS SAYAN, UBUD