In an effort to combat pollution on the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, climbers will now be required to bring their excrement down with them, according to new rules implemented this year. The move comes as the growing number of visitors and harsh conditions have led to an escalating "poo problem" on the mountain.

Climbing Everest has always been an expensive endeavor, with climbers paying $11,000 for a climbing permit alone. When factoring in other expenses such as gear, food, supplemental oxygen, and Sherpa guides, the total cost can amount to over $35,000. However, the issue of human waste has been a significant concern, as the conditions on the mountain hinder the natural degradation process.

Diwas Pokhrel, the first vice president of Everest Summiteers Association, addressed the severity of the problem, stating that "The problem of human waste on Everest was very bad," and it was "polluting the mountain environment," particularly at the highest points.

The situation was expected to worsen without stricter regulations. In 2019, Nepal issued a record-breaking 478 climbing permits, resulting in increased human waste buildup. Tragically, twelve climbers lost their lives on the mountain last year, with an additional five still officially missing.

Jinesh Sindurakar from the Nepal Mountaineering Association provided insights into the scale of the issue, estimating that around 1,200 climbers will be on Everest this season. Each climber produces approximately 250 grams (8.8 ounces) of excrement daily and spends two weeks on the higher camps during the summit push. To tackle this problem, climbers will be provided with two poop bags, designed to be used six times each. These bags contain specialized chemicals that solidify the waste and eliminate odor. Nepal's Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality will distribute around 8,000 such bags this season.

Amidst concerns about the impact of tourism on the Himalayas, efforts to reduce pollution have intensified. The Nepali Army has spearheaded an initiative, resulting in the removal of a staggering 35,708 kilograms of waste and plastics from various peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Annapurna, and Baruntse, as reported by the Himalayan Times.

The implementation of the new regulations marks a significant step towards preserving the pristine environment of Mount Everest. With climbers now mandated to carry their excrement down from the peak, it is hoped that these measures will mitigate the pollution problem and ensure the long-term sustainability of one of the world's most iconic mountains.