melati and isabel wijsen

3 min read 07-10-2024

Melati and Isabel Wijsen, two sisters from Bali, Indonesia, have become iconic figures in the realm of youth activism, known for their relentless efforts in environmental advocacy. Their journey began at a young age, inspired by their love for the natural world and their desire to combat the plastic pollution crisis affecting their home and beyond. This article delves into their inspiring story, the initiatives they founded, and the impact they've made globally.

Who Are Melati and Isabel Wijsen?

Melati (born in 2001) and Isabel Wijsen (born in 2003) are Indonesian sisters who gained international recognition for their activism, particularly in addressing plastic waste. The duo started their journey when they were only 8 and 6 years old, respectively. Their initial inspiration came from witnessing the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on their environment during a family trip to a beach in Bali.

What Initiatives Have They Started?

Bye Bye Plastic Bags

In 2013, the Wijsen sisters co-founded the initiative Bye Bye Plastic Bags, which aimed to eliminate the use of plastic bags in Bali. Their mission was not just to create awareness but to inspire local communities, businesses, and governments to take action. The campaign garnered significant attention, leading to collaborations with various stakeholders, including the local government.

The "We Are Ocean" Movement

In addition to Bye Bye Plastic Bags, the sisters launched the “We Are Ocean” campaign, emphasizing the importance of oceans and their conservation. This initiative focuses on mobilizing youth to take part in ocean conservation efforts, raising awareness about the impact of pollution, and promoting sustainable practices.

What Challenges Did They Face?

Despite their passion and dedication, Melati and Isabel encountered numerous challenges, including:

Skepticism from Adults: As young activists, they often faced disbelief from adults who doubted their capabilities and intentions. However, their resilience and commitment helped them overcome these obstacles.
Funding and Resources: Initially, they struggled to secure funding and resources to support their initiatives. They learned the importance of networking and collaboration to bring their vision to life.
Cultural Barriers: Navigating societal norms and engaging a community set in its ways presented a significant challenge. They focused on education and community involvement to bridge these gaps.

Impact and Recognition

The efforts of Melati and Isabel have led to several significant outcomes:

Bali's Plastic Bag Ban: In 2018, their hard work culminated in the Bali provincial government implementing a ban on single-use plastic bags, a groundbreaking step toward combating plastic pollution in the region.
Global Recognition: The sisters have received various awards, including being named Young Champions of the Earth by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in 2018, showcasing their influence on a global scale.
Inspiration to Other Youth: Their story has inspired countless young activists worldwide, proving that age should not be a barrier to making a difference. They encourage youth to engage in local issues and amplify their voices.

Why Are Their Efforts Important?

The work of Melati and Isabel Wijsen exemplifies the power of youth in driving change. Here are a few key reasons why their initiatives are so impactful:

Raising Awareness: They have successfully educated communities about the consequences of plastic waste, turning apathy into activism.
Encouraging Sustainable Practices: By promoting alternatives to single-use plastics, they foster a culture of sustainability.
Empowering Young People: Their story demonstrates that youth can lead movements and influence policy, encouraging others to act in their communities.

Final Thoughts

Melati and Isabel Wijsen are proof that passion and dedication can lead to meaningful change. Their initiatives have not only transformed their local community in Bali but have also sparked a global conversation about plastic pollution and environmental stewardship. As the world continues to grapple with environmental challenges, the impact of young leaders like the Wijsen sisters is more vital than ever.

Additional Resources

For those looking to support or learn more about Melati and Isabel Wijsen's initiatives, consider visiting the following resources:

By engaging with their projects or spreading awareness, you too can contribute to the global movement for a cleaner, more sustainable planet.

By incorporating Melati and Isabel Wijsen's journey into a broader discussion of youth activism and environmental responsibility, this article highlights their significant contributions while providing readers with actionable insights and resources to foster change in their own communities.