Everest's Shame: Garbage Dump on World's Highest Peak

Mount Everest, a renowned peak for climbers, has transformed into a significant environmental concern, widely referred to as the 'world's highest garbage dump.' Recent footage has brought renewed attention to the vast accumulation of waste, including human excrement, left by expeditions. This issue has persisted since commercial expeditions began in the 1980s.

Each climber typically generates around 18 pounds of waste, with much of it remaining on the mountain. This overwhelming debris not only mars the natural beauty but also poses a serious threat to the environment. The pollution impacts glaciers that feed Asia's largest rivers, jeopardizing water access for over 2 billion people.

While Everest's summit is notoriously dangerous, the ecological toll of climbing is equally grave. Seasoned climbers advocate for sustainable practices, yet the problem of waste management continues to plague the region, leaving the burden of cleanup on local communities and highlighting a critical need for better environmental stewardship.