Meet: Silvija Rumiha
Originally from: Melbourne, Australia
Arrived in Bali: 2011
Home in Bail is: Kerobokan
What made you move to Bali?
We were wanting to leave London after living in England for over 10 years. My partner got offered a job and we thought it would be a great idea to come to Bali.
How long do you plan to stay? 1 year and now 9 years later we are still here!
Where is home in Bali and why have you decided to live there?
We live off a gang next to the banjar in Kerobokan. We love our spot, beautiful view, the peace and quiet and the ease of getting to other places easily.
Was it difficult to find a villa?
Villas are in abundance in Bali. However, it is difficult to find the one that ticks all the boxes. Compromise is key to finding a villa.
You started a business in Bali! Please share with us the journey of setting up Zero Waste Bali.
It all resulted after a snorkelling trip and seeing how much plastic there was in the ocean. I knew then I needed to make a change. When we returned to Bali I made changes to an existing business called Mini Muncher where we make baby and kids meals. Previously our packaging was in plastic containers and then we changed to glass jars. From that I kept asking myself what else can I do to make a difference and reduce plastic waste? That’s how Zero Waste Bali came about and it was also Bali and Indonesia’s first bulk food store.
Zero Waste Bali is a health food store where you can come and take what you need and also order all your groceries and eco products online and get delivered straight to your door.
I encourage customers to bring their own containers, mesh bags or jars to fill and to reuse what they currently have to help reduce the plastic waste problem in Bali. With the current situation of the earth drowning in plastic it is imperative that we act now and make simple changes. I am thrilled to be part of the solution not only through the bulk food store but also educating students in schools, hosting and speaking at events and also consulting to business’ and hotels and villas in Bali on how they too can make a difference.
To get an understanding of what we do and how it works you can watch this short video.
What tips do you have about reducing our own waste?
Going zero waste isn’t about being perfect and having no waste. It is your own personal journey about reducing the amount of waste you produce. Being mindful about your consumption and purchases and living as simply as you can. This will vary with each and every one of us however together we can make a difference. There are simple things that we all can do to make a difference and move towards a more plastic free lifestyle. For example, refusing single use plastic bags and cutlery, drink from a reusable water bottle, bring a reusable bag with you every where you go and change your mindset to reusable rather than single use.
What was a typical Bali day for you and your family?
Wake up, breakfast and school run. Work, pick up kids, after school activities, homework, dinner and bed.
Much the same as anywhere else however I am glad to be doing it in Bali rather than anywhere else.
What is the best kept secret/hidden gem in Bali you’ve discovered?
Oooh there are many! I love exploring with my children. We found waterfalls that were newly formed, tracks through rice fields and more. There really is so much to see and do in Bali and heading outside the popular areas is a must!
What advice do you have for other families making the move to Bali?
Just do it! It is what you make of it. Bali will either suck you up or spit you out. It takes around a year to settle in, find your way and truly know if Bali is really for you.
To follow Silvija‘s life and businesses in Bali:
