Mount Everest, the world’s tallest peak, has been facing a growing issue with waste and pollution left behind by climbers. In an effort to combat this problem, authorities have introduced a new rule requiring climbers to bring their own waste back to base camp for disposal. This comes as part of wider measures being implemented to address the mounting complaints about human stools being visible on rocks and the negative impact it has on the image of the region.
Due to extreme temperatures, excrement left on Everest does not degrade fully, leading to a build-up of waste that is affecting the environment and the health of climbers. The new rule aims to tackle this issue by ordering climbers to purchase specialized “poo bags” at base camp, which will be checked upon their return. These bags contain chemicals and powders that solidify the waste and reduce odor. The authorities estimate that on average, a climber produces 250 grams of excrement per day, and they plan to distribute two bags to each climber, each of which can be used five to six times.
The waste problem on Mount Everest extends beyond human excrement. Rubbish and litter remain a major issue, particularly in higher camps where it is challenging to reach and clean up. It is estimated that there are approximately three tonnes of human waste between camp one and camp four, with half of it believed to be concentrated at South Col, which serves as the base before climbers attempt to reach the Everest and Lhotse summits. South Col has gained a reputation as an “open toilet,” with climbers encountering human stools all around due to the lack of ice and snow at that altitude.
In response to the waste problem, the Pasang Lhamu rural municipality has authorized the non-government organization Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) to procure 8,000 poo bags from the US for the upcoming climbing season. This initiative has been tested on other mountains like Mount Denali and in the Antarctic, where climbers have successfully used similar bags to manage waste. The hope is that implementing these measures on Everest will help clean up the mountain and improve its image.
While the new rule is a step in the right direction, there are concerns about its implementation and enforcement. Nepal’s central government has faced criticism in the past for failing to properly implement mountaineering rules. One of the main issues is the absence of liaison officers at base camps, who are supposed to monitor expedition teams and ensure compliance with regulations. Without adequate oversight, irregularities occur, such as climbers attempting to summit without permits. The Pasang Lhamu rural municipality aims to change this by establishing a contact office at base camps to ensure the new measures are effectively implemented.
The waste problem on Mount Everest is not only an environmental issue but also impacts the reputation and allure of the region. As the most iconic peak in the world, it attracts climbers and adventurers from around the globe. However, the sight of human stools on rocks and the presence of litter tarnish the natural beauty and challenge the perception of Mount Everest as an untouched and pristine destination. Addressing the waste problem is crucial not only for the preservation of the mountain but also for the sustainability of mountaineering tourism in the region.
Efforts to address the waste problem on Mount Everest extend beyond this new rule. There have been increasing clean-up campaigns, including an annual one led by the Nepali Army. However, the mountain’s extreme conditions and remote locations make waste management a complex task. It is essential that climbers and support staff not only adhere to the new requirement of bringing their waste back to base camp but also actively participate in the overall clean-up efforts.
In conclusion, the implementation of a new rule requiring climbers to bring their waste back to base camp is a significant step towards addressing the waste problem on Mount Everest. It aims to tackle the visible presence of human stools on rocks, the negative impacts on climbers’ health, and the erosion of the region’s image. While the use of specialized poo bags can help solidify waste and reduce odor, proper enforcement and oversight are necessary for the success of this measure. Additionally, continued efforts in waste management and clean-up campaigns are vital in preserving the natural beauty and sustainability of mountaineering tourism on Mount Everest.
