Why Are Mount Everest Climbers Asked to Bring Their Poop to Base Camp?

Mount Everest climbers are facing a unique directive to bring back their feces to the base camp, according to a BBC report. The decision comes from the Pasang Lhamu rural municipality, prompted by concerns that the mountains have begun to emit unpleasant odors. Extreme temperatures in the region impede the full degradation of excrement, leading to visible human stools on rocks and health issues for climbers. Pasang Lhamu's Chairman, Mingma Sherpa, expressed dissatisfaction with the negative impact on the region's image and well-being, leading to the decision to enforce the disposal measure.

Climbers intending to ascend Mount Everest and neighboring Mount Lhotse are required to purchase "poop bags" at the base camp, and these bags will be inspected upon their return. The move aims to address the issue of human waste not decomposing adequately in the challenging environmental conditions. During the climbing season, mountaineers spend extended periods at the base camp, where separate tents are designated for toilets and other necessities.

However, when climbers commence their ascent, some areas experience less snowfall, forcing individuals to defecate in the open. While some climbers already bring their waste back in biodegradable bags, this practice is not widespread. The problem escalates in higher camps, where waste management becomes challenging. Chhiring Sherpa, CEO of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, highlighted waste as a significant issue, especially in the upper camps, inaccessible for cleaning efforts.

South Col, situated closer to the peak, has earned a reputation as an "open toilet," according to international mountain guide Stephan Keck. The lack of ice and snow in this region results in visible human stools. To address the growing concern, the NGO is importing over 8,000 poop bags from the US for the upcoming climbing season, starting in March. These bags contain chemicals and powders that solidify human waste, minimizing odor.

On average, a climber is estimated to excrete 250 grams of waste daily. Given the two-week stay in upper camps required to reach the summit, the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee plans to distribute two bags to each climber, each designed for multiple uses. The initiative underscores the collective effort to manage the environmental impact of human waste in the challenging conditions of the world's tallest mountain

Feb. 8, 2024 6:18 p.m. 4559

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