Amarta Beach Retreat: Nakula’s First Sustainability Pilot in Tabanan, Bali

Nakula, one of Bali’s leading hospitality management companies, is taking another step toward reshaping the island’s tourism landscape — this time, with sustainability at its core. The 100% Indonesian-staffed company has officially launched its first sustainability pilot at Amarta Beach Retreat in Tabanan, introducing a model that integrates environmental innovation, community collaboration, and climate-responsive design.

A New Chapter in Sustainable Hospitality

Set along a 12,000-square-metre stretch of black-sand coastline where only 40% of the land is developed, Amarta Beach Retreat reflects Nakula’s commitment to responsible growth. The initiative marks the beginning of Nakula’s journey to create sustainable hospitality experiences in Bali that are both environmentally and socially impactful.

“We want to show that sustainability can be practical, measurable, and community-driven,” says Christian Sunjoto, CEO of Nakula.

Transforming Food Waste into Circular Value

At the heart of Amarta’s sustainability efforts is a partnership with Z Bio, a Bali-based biotech start-up that transforms food waste into high-protein livestock feed and organic fertilizer using black soldier fly larvae.

Since December 2024, Amarta has successfully managed over 1 ton of food waste, preventing it from reaching landfills and avoiding an estimated 2.1 tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions.

In collaboration with Desa Tibubiu, Amarta has also helped establish an organic waste bank, where local residents and businesses contribute food waste for processing. This circular model promotes local engagement and extends sustainability efforts beyond the resort itself.

“We hope to inspire fellow businesses across Bali — and even Indonesia — to explore this solution,” adds Christian. “Food waste management is a shared responsibility, and Tabanan is a great place to start meaningful change.”

Powering the Future with Solar Energy

Amarta is also investing in renewable energy. In partnership with InniSolar, the resort has installed 45.8 kWp of solar panels, generating approximately 60,000 kWh annually and cutting over 55,000 kg of CO₂ emissions each year.

This effort was partly supported by the Sustainable Energy Fund (SEF) under Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and UNDP. Plans are underway to increase capacity to 72.4 kWp by 2025, producing nearly 100 MWh annually.

Beyond energy efficiency, Amarta’s architecture integrates natural light and ventilation to minimize environmental impact while ensuring guest comfort.

People, Culture, and Purpose

At Nakula, sustainability is about more than just the environment — it’s also about people and culture.

• 90% of Amarta’s team are local hires from Tabanan

• 20% of perishable goods are sourced from the surrounding area

• The resort actively supports cultural programs such as traditional dance practices for youth, performances by Sanggar Seni, and the annual Amarta Art Festival

“Social and cultural sustainability matters just as much as environmental sustainability,” says Christian. “If our people can’t live decent lives, no one will care about the trash.”

Setting the Standard for Responsible Tourism in Bali

Guests staying at Amarta enjoy a single-use plastic-free experience, with refillable amenities available throughout the property — a policy now implemented across Nakula’s 77+ managed properties.

These practices demonstrate Nakula’s belief that sustainability and guest experience go hand in hand, creating long-term value for communities and travelers alike.

“Measuring our contribution to the environment motivates our team to do better,” says Christian. “It helps us see the real impact of what we do every day.”

The Road Ahead

Amarta Beach Retreat is only the beginning. Nakula plans to adapt these sustainability practices across its growing portfolio — including standalone villas — to create a scalable model of sustainable tourism in Bali that benefits both people and the planet.

“If we want tourism to thrive, we have to protect what makes Bali worth visiting,” concludes Christian.

Visit our booking page at www.nakula.com or contact our reservation team at [email protected] or through WhatsApp +62 82 1458 11275