In a bid to enhance safety and environmental preservation, Nepal has introduced stringent regulations for mountaineers trekking the Himalayas. Following a year marked by tragedy where 18 individuals perished on Everest, the Nepali government now mandates climbers to carry GPS trackers.
This new rule, aimed at facilitating rescues during emergencies, requires climbers to equip themselves with small, passive trackers, which do not require power and can be detected through snow up to 20 yards away, a report in Independent said.
Rakesh Gurung, director of mountaineering at Nepal’s tourism department, emphasized the importance of the trackers, saying, “The trackers are mandatory for climbers this year, so that if there is an accident their location can be accurately identified.”
In addition to safety measures, climbers will now face regulations aimed at addressing the growing problem of waste on the mountain. Authorities have decreed that Everest climbers must carry back their excrement using specially designed poo bags after their ascent. This decision follows mounting complaints regarding human waste on Everest’s routes, which fails to decompose due to the extreme cold.
The climbing industry has seen a rapid expansion, contributing significantly to Nepal’s economy. Last year, the sector brought in EURO 4.5 million in revenue, with Everest alone accounting for EURO 3.9 million. However, this growth has raised concerns about safety and environmental degradation.
The newly required GPS trackers, which are low-cost and easily integrated into clothing, alongside the mandatory use of poo bags, represent Nepal’s effort to manage the dual challenges of safety and sanitation. These trackers, expected to cost between EURO 8 and EURO 12, will be provided by trekking companies and collected upon descent, the Independent report said.
The push for cleanliness extends beyond just tracking and waste collection. With approximately 8,000 excreta bags set to be distributed among climbers and support staff, the initiative aims to mitigate the impact of human waste. These bags, which will be supplied from the US, contain chemicals to solidify waste and reduce odor, hoping to maintain the mountain’s sanctity.
Despite these measures, there is skepticism regarding their implementation. Jonathan Reilly, director of the British Expedition Company, expressed concerns to the Telegraph about the potential misuse of the poo bags, fearing they might be discarded on the mountain, exacerbating the waste problem.
This initiative follows successful models from other mountains, like Mount Denali in Alaska, and has been generally welcomed by Everest expedition operators. Yet, it underscores the broader challenges posed by the commercialization of Everest, including the safety risks of crowded climbing routes and the environmental impact of increased human activity.
Calhoun will depart at the end of 2024. Stan Deal, Boeing’s head of commercial airlines since 2019, will exit immediately, while the company’s chairman, Larry Kellner, a former airline CEO, will depart after the company’s annual meeting this spring.
The introduction of these regulations coincides with global calls for action on climate change, highlighted by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ plea from the Himalayas to end the fossil fuel era. His visit underscored the urgent threat posed by glacier melting, urging immediate action to protect frontline communities and limit global temperature rise.
As climbers adapt to these new rules, the measures reflect Nepal’s ongoing efforts to balance the booming mountaineering industry with safety and environmental preservation on the world’s highest peak.
