Everest, the planet’s loftiest peak, has beckoned countless adventurers and climbers seeking to challenge their limits against the ultimate summit. Yet, it’s also witnessed the final steps of many. Labeled ‘Garbage Mountain’ in 2000, it now stands as a poignant symbol of humanity’s impact on natural wonders, and local authorities indicate a distressing trend.
What was once hailed as one of Earth’s most pristine realms has, regrettably, transformed into an enormous waste zone. At one juncture, the stench of excrement permeated the air as the snow thawed.
Mount Everest grapples with a mounting predicament: an ever-swelling influx of climbers, many of whom show scant regard for cleanliness.
“[It’s] turning into a restroom due to human activity during climbs,” remarked Mingma Chhiri Sherpa, chairperson of the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality.
Consequently, commencing this year, climbers embarking on the iconic ascent will be mandated to purchase a designated toilet bag at base camp and transport it to the summit. Upon descent, they must surrender the bag containing their waste.
