Environmental Concerns on Mount Everest Mount Everest has become a mountain full of trash and overcrowding to the point where it has been named, “‘The world’s highest garbage dump’” (Hickok par. 3). Mount Everest has been a place of adventure for only the most daring individuals for decades. The once beautiful and remote landmark has now become a place full of waste, and wealthy individuals who believe they have what it takes to venture up the extremely challenging expedition of Mount Everest. To combat these environmental concerns and try to preserve one of the most iconic mountains in the world, there have been precautions put in place such as clean-ups by the local community below the mountain. The environmental concerns on Mount Everest …show more content…
Researchers are finding data that leads them to believe that the higher temperatures the earth is experiencing are leading to the discovery of microplastics in the snow. An article from National Geographic states, “The highest-ever recorded sample of microplastics was found on the “Balcony” of Mt. Everest at 8,440 m, one of the last resting spots before reaching the summit” (Climate Change… par. 3). The researchers who have found this data have been able to conclude that the “microplastic is likely coming from the clothing and equipment worn by climbers” (Climate Change… par. 3). These insights are allowing researchers to narrow down how much of an impact humans are having on climate change, and what can be done to help this matter. The water from the glaciers on Mount Everest, which is now filled with micropollutants, is a water source that is used by many. The waste that is taking over the mountain is not only affecting the climbers but the people who used these glaciers as their water source. Solutions must be put in place to help combat this …show more content…
This organization is working to control the waste in the surrounding areas of Mount Everest. An article written by the SPCC describes their committee as, “the lead organization working to manage waste in Khumbu Region, which forms the Sagarmatha National Park and its Buffer Zone and also encompasses the core Everest trekking area” (“About the SPCC” par. 2). In addition, the SPCC also helps to ensure safe and legal climbing. These measures must be put in place so the climbers can safely climb the mountain and not create problems for others on the mountain. According to the SPCC, they also help to verify climbing permits, track legal and illegal climbing, and they administer programs for the trash in the area (“About the SPCC” par. 2). The measures that have been put in place by the SPCC to not only help the climbers to understand how to manage their waste, but to also make sure legal climbing regulations are in place are a great start. The SPCC could improve its practices by implementing a reward system for climbers to bring back down their waste and potential waste they pick up on their climb back down. This could be implemented by requiring climbers to submit a deposit and weigh their packs before they begin their journey. If the climbers come back with what will be determined by the SPCC as an adequate