A ‘farm-to-table project’ in Bali to provide additional income for local farmers has been introduced by destination management company (DMC) Discova.
The initiative directly helps communities impacted by the lack of international tourists due to global Covid-19 travel restrictions.
The scheme helps farmers sell organic and locally made produce directly to partner hotels and restaurants across the island and nationwide.
Discova is to finance organic farming workshops, irrigation infrastructure along with seeds and vegetable plants for community farmers.
The firm, which provides in-destination services for tour oeprators and travel agents, is working with Bali Rare Paduraksa (BRP), an independent association which educates farmers on organic and sustainable farming.
The partnership sees Discova provide finance for workshops, irrigation, rice seeds and vegetable plants.
The project supports farmers from a village in Karangasem in east Bali.
Peter Christiansen, Indonesia country manager for Discova, said: “We are very excited to help the farmers of our communities generate additional income while also supporting Bali’s growing organic farming movement.
“We begin our first phase with 22 farmers and three hectares of land. I have been moved by the enthusiasm and passion of the local people to move away from traditional farming. They are focused on working towards a healthier environment, but also want to ensure healthier diets, especially for their kids.”
He added: “This farm-to-table project is a long-term initiative and Discova have appointed a dedicated team to look after this.
“We are helping community farmers convert from conventional farming using chemical intervention, to more sustainable, organic methods.
“When international tourism returns to Bali, we will help our communities build their own businesses providing cooking classes, trekking, cycling experiences to our travellers, generating direct income for locals.”