The problem of trash on Mount Everest is nothing new. From discarded tents and oxygen cylinders to ropes and plastic bottles, the world’s tallest mountain is covered with detritus left by the hundreds of climbers who attempt to scale the mountain each year. Unfortunately, one of the biggest trash-related problems is human waste.
While at base camp, climbers have access to rudimentary toilet facilities that are emptied regularly. But once they begin the trek towards the summit, many climbers simply dig holes in the snow or “go” out in the open. According to some estimates, there are over three tons of human feces on the mountain. Due to the freezing temperatures, the poop doesn’t biodegrade as it would closer to sea level.
To combat this problem, Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality has imposed new regulations stating that anyone ascending Everest will need to carry their waste down to base camp. The Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee will distribute 1,500 bags to climbers, support workers, and rescue workers for use on the mountain this season. Each person will need to purchase two bags for their climb from base camp to the summit and back.
Although carrying your poop may sound gross, it’s an established method that’s been tested on other mountains. The bags contain chemicals to solidify the waste and make it nearly odorless.
The world's highest garbage dump?
- Recently, the Nepali government and local authorities have been tightening regulations to clean up Everest's image as the “world’s highest garbage dump.” One notable 2014 rule instituted a hefty trash deposit that is returned if climbers bring at least 17 lbs (8 kg) back down.
- Over the years, cleanup efforts have tried to return Everest to its pristine glory, especially as it is considered a sacred mountain for many in Tibet and Nepal. In 2019, a Nepali team removed around 24,000 lbs (10,886 kg) of trash from Mount Everest. Tragically, four bodies were also recovered during the effort.
- The numbers of climbers attempting to reach the summit of Mount Everest continue to rise, with 436 permits issued by Nepal in spring 2023 (at $11,000 each). Some of those attempting the climb are relatively inexperienced, exacerbating the safety issues of overcrowding on the mountain.
- The first “official” summiting of Mount Everest occurred in 1953, with Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. As of December 2023, 6,664 different people have reached the summit.
