Debris Free Fridays
Cleaning the Gilis beaches and inland areas since 2013
Who We Are
Debris Free Friday is a weekly island-wide cleanup that rotates locations — focusing on beaches and, at times, inner-island areas that need attention.
It’s not just about picking up trash. It’s about:
Strengthening community connection
Educating locals and visitors about waste management
Reducing marine debris
Supporting long-term sustainability on the islands
This is environmental action you can see — and feel.
Enacting Change
Every Friday at 5pm, something powerful happens on the Gili Islands.
Guests, divers, travellers, local staff and island residents come together for Debris Free Friday - a social, community-led beach cleanup movement established in 2013.
What began as a simple idea has become a weekly ritual of action, connection, and care for both our marine and island ecosystems.
GiliPass is proud to provide ongoing support through sponsored beach cleans, helping ensure this movement continues to grow and create tangible impact.
The Goal: Zero Waste
Environmentally-minded businesses participating in the movement commit to meaningful sustainability standards:
No single-use plastics (no straws, plastic cutlery, etc.)
No plastic or styrofoam takeaway containers
Provide refill water stations (instead of selling plastic bottles)
Partner with FMPL for responsible waste management
Reward volunteers with zero-waste drinks (e.g., refillable Bintang bottles or canned soft drinks - no plastic)
Some businesses also offer snacks, cake, or pizza slices - often using the opportunity to showcase specials and invite volunteers back another evening.
If a business is not yet fully aligned with these standards, Debris Free Friday offers resources, training, and sustainability consultations to help them transition.
This is not about perfection. It’s about progress.
Join the Movement
If you're visiting the Gili Islands, joining Debris Free Friday is simple - just follow our socials for the latest info @debrisfreefriday.
If you're a business wanting to participate, connect with us to learn how your venue can participate and become more sustainable.
How Debris Free Friday Works
4:30pm
The Debris Free team arrives with equipment & sorting bags. There’s a short intro to island waste systems - a great opportunity for staff to learn.
5:00pm
Volunteers gather. A 10–15 minute briefing explains:
What can be recycled
Why sorting matters
How the island waste system works
5:15–6:00pm
Cleanup time. Teams spread out for 45 minutes, collecting and sorting debris. At the end, FMPL arrives to weigh and remove the waste properly.
Then? A well-earned zero-waste drink - and a sunset knowing you made a difference.
Join this social impact initiative to meet like-minded souls and make a difference during your travels.
Join us Fridays at 5pm and make a difference
If you’d like to know more about Debris Free Fridays, including how to get involved or make donations, please click here.