Executive Summary
Labuan Bajo, a burgeoning tourist destination, faces critical challenges related to clean water access and waste management. Despite its natural beauty and growth in tourism, inadequate infrastructure threatens both public health and environmental sustainability. This proposal seeks support from UNDP to address these urgent issues through a community-driven initiative that focuses on improving water access and sustainable waste practices. Our aim is to create lasting positive impacts on both the local population and the environment, setting Labuan Bajo as a model for green and sustainable tourism.
Problem Statement
Labuan Bajo is currently grappling with two key challenges:
- Clean Water Access: Many communities receive limited and irregular access to clean water, leading to health risks and reducing quality of life.
- Waste Management: With tourism growth comes an increase in plastic and other waste, which is poorly managed, leading to environmental degradation.
These issues, if not addressed, will hamper the sustainable development of the region and diminish the quality of life for its inhabitants, as well as its appeal as a tourist destination.
Project Objectives
The primary goals of this project are:
- Ensure equitable access to clean water for communities across Labuan Bajo by developing sustainable water infrastructure.
- Promote zero-waste practices by implementing a comprehensive waste management system, including recycling, waste reduction, and public education.
- Foster community ownership and capacity building, ensuring long-term sustainability through local engagement.
Project Activities
- Water Infrastructure Improvement:
We propose to collaborate with local authorities to expand the water supply systems (e.g., Wae Mese SPAM system) to underserved areas. This includes upgrading water storage facilities and distribution networks .
- Waste Management Campaign:
We will partner with schools, local organizations, and businesses to implement a “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” program . This includes placing recycling bins throughout the town, organizing waste clean-up events, and launching public awareness campaigns.
- Capacity Building Workshops:
Local stakeholders, including youth and women’s groups, will be trained on water conservation techniques and waste management best practices. This ensures community leadership in maintaining the solutions implemented.
Expected Outcomes
- Improved access to clean and reliable water for over households.
- A reduction in plastic waste and improved recycling rates, resulting in cleaner public spaces.
- A strengthened local community capable of managing their water resources and waste systems.
Budget
Detailed Budget for Community-Led Water Access and Waste Management in Labuan Bajo
1. Water Infrastructure Improvement
- Expansion of Water Supply Systems: $100,000
- Includes upgrading the existing Wae Mese SPAM system, extending pipelines to underserved areas, and installing additional water storage tanks.
- Water Storage Facilities (Community-level): $50,000
- Purchasing and installing large water barrels for safe storage in households with limited access.
- Water Filtration Systems: $40,000
- Community water filters to ensure safe drinking water for remote areas.
- Maintenance and Operations: $30,000
- Funding for technical staff and local workers to maintain and operate the new infrastructure for a 2-year period.
Total for Water Infrastructure: $220,000
2. Waste Management Program
- Public Waste Bins (Sorting for Recycling): $25,000
- Installation of waste sorting bins around key areas (markets, schools, tourist spots).
- Recycling Facility Upgrade: $50,000
- Establishing a local recycling plant to process plastics and other materials, plus transportation of recyclables.
- Community Clean-Up Events & Campaigns: $10,000
- Hosting monthly clean-up days involving local residents and businesses.
- Education Materials for Schools and Public: $15,000
- Creating and distributing flyers, banners, and digital materials to promote waste reduction and recycling.
Total for Waste Management: $100,000
3. Capacity Building & Training Workshops
- Workshops on Water Management and Conservation: $20,000
- Partner with NGOs to run 12-month workshops in villages and schools.
- Training in Recycling and Sustainable Waste Practices: $15,000
- Training for local leaders and volunteers to lead recycling programs and manage waste efficiently.
- Women’s Empowerment in Resource Management: $10,000
- Specific training targeting women’s groups to manage water resources and sustainable practices.
Total for Capacity Building: $45,000
4. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Baseline Surveys and Impact Assessments: $10,000
- Initial and ongoing surveys to measure water access improvements and community engagement in waste management.
- Third-Party Auditors: $5,000
- Independent evaluation after one year of implementation.
- Reporting and Data Collection: $5,000
- Regular reporting to stakeholders, including UNDP, with data on project progress.
Total for Monitoring & Evaluation: $20,000
5. Contingency Fund
- Unexpected Expenses (10% of total): $38,500
Grand Total Project Budget: $423,500
This detailed breakdown includes costs for infrastructure, community engagement, and long-term sustainability, ensuring the project has a strong foundation
Monitoring & Evaluation
The project’s progress will be evaluated through regular reporting on water access improvements and waste management outcomes. Surveys and community feedback will be collected to assess the effectiveness of the training and engagement.
Conclusion
This project aligns with UNDP’s mission to support sustainable development, particularly in growing tourism hubs like Labuan Bajo. By addressing urgent needs in water access and waste management, we aim to create a healthier, more sustainable environment that benefits both the local community and visitors.
