Melati Wijsen Calls for Bold Action Against Plastic Pollution

Climate activist Melati Wijsen, known for leading the movement to ban single-use plastics in Bali, has called for urgent and systemic action to tackle the global plastic crisis.

Speaking at the India Today Conclave 2026, Wijsen said environmental problems cannot be solved using the same thinking that created them.

Her remarks focused on the need for collaboration, youth participation and concrete solutions rather than fragmented efforts.

A Young Voice in the Climate Movement

Melati Wijsen began her environmental activism at the age of 12 after witnessing plastic pollution along Bali’s beaches.

Along with her sister, she launched a campaign that eventually contributed to the island introducing restrictions on single-use plastics.

Her activism has since grown into a global platform advocating for youth-led climate action.

Warning Against “Silo Thinking”

During her address, Wijsen emphasised that environmental challenges cannot be addressed through isolated policies or narrow approaches.

She argued that governments, businesses, educators and communities must work together rather than operating in separate “silos”.

According to her, solving the plastic crisis requires coordinated efforts across industries, policy frameworks and public awareness campaigns.

Turning Eco-Anxiety into Action

Wijsen also spoke about the growing sense of eco-anxiety among young people concerned about climate change.

To address this, she founded Youthtopia, an online learning platform designed to help young changemakers develop practical solutions to environmental challenges.

The initiative aims to transform anxiety about the climate crisis into structured action and community-driven projects.

Global Plastic Crisis Remains Urgent

Plastic pollution continues to be one of the most serious environmental threats worldwide.

Millions of tonnes of plastic waste enter oceans every year, damaging marine ecosystems and threatening biodiversity.

Activists and scientists increasingly warn that without major policy shifts and behavioural changes, plastic pollution could worsen dramatically in the coming decades.

Youth Leadership in Climate Action

Wijsen highlighted the role of young people in driving environmental change.

She said the next generation must not only raise awareness but also help design solutions that reshape production, consumption and waste management systems.

Her message at the conclave reinforced the idea that addressing climate change and plastic pollution requires bold thinking and collective action.