The Growing Trash Problem on Mount Everest

Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, is also becoming one of its highest junkyards. Current estimates place around 120 tons of waste on the mountain. This debris includes discarded oxygen tanks, torn tents, climbing equipment, food packaging, and human waste. Much of it has been left by climbers over decades, while some has been scattered by wind and animals. The trash poses serious environmental hazards, leaching chemicals into the watershed, and creates physical dangers for climbers by blocking routes and causing accidents. Cleanup efforts are ongoing but face immense logistical challenges at extreme altitude.