As an avid hiker, I was shocked to learn about the significant problem of trash on Mount Everest. In recent years, the world’s tallest mountain has been given the unfortunate nickname of “World’s highest garbage dump.” This nickname is not without merit, as climbers and visitors to the mountain have left behind an enormous amount of trash and debris.

According to a report by National Geographic, an estimated 26,500 pounds of human waste and 55,000 pounds of trash are left on the mountain every year. The trash includes discarded oxygen tanks, food wrappers, tents, and climbing gear. This problem is not only unsightly but also poses significant environmental and safety hazards.

While the problem of trash on Mount Everest is certainly alarming, it is not without solutions. As individuals, we can take steps to reduce our impact on the mountain and help keep it clean. This includes carrying all trash and waste off the mountain, using biodegradable soap and toiletries, and practicing Leave No Trace principles.

Furthermore, organizations and governments can work to implement regulations and policies that address the problem of trash on the mountain. This includes limiting the number of climbers and visitors to the mountain, enforcing strict waste management policies, and increasing education and awareness around the importance of responsible hiking and mountaineering.

I believe that as hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, it is our responsibility to make sustainable choices and ensure that we leave our trails and mountains better than we found them. We should work together to protect our natural spaces and ensure that hiking destinations remain beautiful and accessible for generations to come. While Mount Everest may be the most well-known example of the issue, it’s important to remember that trash and littering are problems in many other natural areas and hiking trails around the world.

Resources:
https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/trash-and-overcrowding-top-world/ https://www.livescience.com/63061-how-much-trash-mount-everest.html https://martinedstrom.com/stories/everest-trash/ https://globalnews.ca/news/5423926/mount-everest-trash/

Pictures:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Everest
https://mountainplanet.com/blog/plan-to-clear-everest-of-bodies-trash-6794