Nepal's Ambitious Plan to Clean Up Mount Everest
Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, has been grappling with a severe waste management issue for decades. Over 200 people have lost their lives on the Nepal side of the mountain since 1953, and waste collection figures reveal a staggering 85 tonnes of garbage cleared during the 2024 spring season alone. Nepal is now preparing to unveil a comprehensive five-year cleaning strategy to tackle this pressing problem.
The proposed strategy, dubbed the Clean Mountain Strategy (2025-2029), aims to significantly reduce waste and manage it more effectively. A key component is the introduction of a 'Mountain Rangers' team to monitor and collect waste at Everest Base Camp and higher camps. The use of drones is also being explored to collect waste from areas above the base camp.
To discourage littering and encourage responsible waste management, climbers will be required to pay a refundable garbage deposit and a non-refundable environmental fee. Stricter rules on equipment and materials will also be enforced, such as mandating rope-fixing teams to report their annual use of ladders and nylon ropes, and making banners and prayer flags above base camp biodegradable and standardised.
The Supreme Court's order to specify the number of climbers in permits is expected to help address traffic jams on the summit ridge and growing trash piles. A portion of climbing revenues will be earmarked for clean-up campaigns, with provisions for local community involvement, and expedition operators will be charged waste management fees under the 'polluter pays' principle.
The draft strategy proposes a Rs308 million fund for Everest clean-up efforts, but insiders estimate the real cost will exceed Rs1 billion.
Nepal's upcoming five-year Everest cleaning strategy promises a multi-pronged approach to tackle the mountain's waste management crisis. With stricter rules, increased fees, and community involvement, the plan aims to transform Mount Everest from a garbage dump back into a pristine natural wonder.
Read also:
- Potential Consequences of Dismantling FEMA Vary Across States
- Railway line in Bavaria threatened by unstable slope - extensive construction site at risk
- Wind Farm Controversy on the Boundary of Laois and Kilkenny
- Puerto Rico's Climate Lawfare Campaign experiences another setback with the dismissal of its deals.
