Addressing the Environmental Impact on Mount Everest Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, has long captivated the imagination of adventurers and mountaineers. However, the recent climbing season has left parts of the mountain resembling a rubbish dump, with discarded tents and sanitation pads marring its pristine beauty.
The local climbers, including experienced guide Tenzi Sherpa, have expressed their dismay, describing Everest as the "dirtiest" they have ever seen it. This alarming situation calls for immediate action to address the environmental impact caused by excessive tourism and inadequate waste management.
Mount Everest: A Paradise in Peril
Video footage of rubbish littering the slopes of Mount Everest has circulated widely on the internet, drawing attention to the growing concern about the state of the mountain. This year, there has been a significant surge in the number of climbers attempting to conquer Everest, making it a record-breaking season. Nepal, the country where Everest is located, has issued a staggering 478 climbing permits, surpassing the previous record of 408 permits in 2021. Unfortunately, this increase in climbing activity has brought with it a surge in waste left behind by climbers.
Climbing guide Tenzi Sherpa, who has been leading climbers up the mountain for the past four years, expressed his deep sadness and disappointment at the current situation. He highlighted the irresponsible behavior of expedition groups and companies, who not only leave behind their tents but also discard empty gas bottles, bowls, sanitation pads, and plastic at Camp Four on the South Col, situated at a staggering altitude of 7,906 meters above sea level.
A Mounting Crisis:
The Impact of Tourism on Everest The excessive impact of tourism on Mount Everest has been a topic of concern for many years. According to a 2020 study published by the European Journal of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, an estimated fifty tonnes of rubbish have been left on the mountain in the last 60 years. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for effective waste management strategies.
To address the issue, both governmental and non-governmental organizations in Nepal have made efforts to tackle the rubbish problem. Since 2013, climbers who go beyond the Everest Base Camp have been legally required to bring back an additional 8 kilograms of rubbish. Failure to comply can result in the forfeiture of a $6,000 deposit, a financial penalty intended to encourage climbers to be more responsible. However, the study revealed that the rules regarding rubbish removal are unclear and fail to account for climbers who may be injured and unable to carry extra waste off the mountain.
The Nepalese army has also been deployed on several occasions to assist with the cleanup. Despite these initiatives, Tenzi Sherpa argues that the government's efforts have fallen short. He claims that the liaison officers responsible for monitoring rubbish removal at the camps are not adequately carrying out their duties, rendering their presence ineffective.
The Call for Accountability and Responsibility
Mount Everest is not only a natural wonder but also a symbol of Nepal's tourism industry. With visitors from all over the world flocking to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas, it is crucial for both companies and the Nepalese government to take action to protect and preserve this fragile ecosystem.
Megan O'Hara Sullivan, a trekker from Queensland, Australia, emphasizes the need for a collective effort to ensure the cleanliness of Everest. She suggests that trekking companies should prioritize sustainability and actively engage in responsible waste management practices. Sullivan's group, for instance, consciously brought back an additional 2 kilograms of rubbish each from their trek to Base Camp.
Alan Cohrs, the owner of a company that guides treks to Mount Everest Base Camp, affirms that most companies are doing their best to address the waste issue. Cohrs himself has implemented measures such as boiling water to reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles. He believes that through a combination of individual efforts and initiatives, the situation can be improved. However, Cohrs acknowledges the need for increased regulation, as the unprecedented number of visitors to the mountain poses a significant challenge.
Respecting Everest: A Collective Responsibility
Mount Everest is more than just a climbing challenge; it is a gift of nature that demands our utmost respect. The beauty and majesty of this iconic peak should be preserved for future generations to admire and cherish. It is imperative that the Nepalese government, tourism authorities, and climbing companies work hand in hand to establish stricter regulations, enforce waste management policies, and promote responsible climbing practices.
If we are to protect Everest from becoming a mere rubbish dump, it is essential to foster a collective mindset that values sustainability and respects the environment. Education and awareness campaigns should be carried out to highlight the importance of responsible waste disposal, emphasizing the unique ecological significance of the mountain and the need for its preservation.
In conclusion, the recent record-breaking climbing season on Mount Everest has revealed a troubling reality: the mountain is being tarnished by the accumulation of waste left behind by climbers. It is imperative for climbers, companies, and the Nepalese government to unite in their efforts to preserve the beauty and integrity of this natural wonder.
Only through collective responsibility and stringent waste management measures can we ensure that future generations will continue to be awe-inspired by the majestic grandeur of Mount Everest.
댓글