Waste doesn’t need to be wasted! That’s what recycling organisation Blue Waste to Value says. The world’s favourite challenge is going through a rough patch, and it’s our fault. Human beings are capable of change and our mistakes can be mended, at least for another 11 years before global warming becomes irreversible. Mount Everest has taken scientists seriously. The Nepal government has received flak for years and they’re finally doing something about trashy times.
What is it
Mount Everest is to be cleaned! Decades of climbing has made the highest place in the world vulnerable to human behaviour. Climbers often prioritize success over humanity. They consume and discard, which has turned the peak into the highest dumpster in the world. Empty cans, gas canisters, bottles, plastic and discarded climbing gear are all left behind by adventurers.
People make the climb but leave it a little more difficult for the next in line. Nepal is not having it anymore. A team of 14 retrieved 10 tonnes of trash on a single expedition. They covered 26,300 feet from base camp to summit on a cleanliness drive. The materials were then driven or even flown to the capital, Kathmandu. Aluminium, glass, plastic, iron, all these resources were recovered. Most of the trash was clocked in for upcycling!
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What’s more
Five-star hotels in Nepal’s capital is serving pure blood water in upcycled glasses from the Everest trash. What goes around comes around, right? Hotel Yak & Yeti was quoted saying they are proud of their advancement in the global green cause. They understand it is essential for human beings now more than ever to come together.
The struggle
Trash is taboo in Nepalese society. So, they’re clueless when it comes to upcycling because traditionally they’re not supposed to. The Everest trash was sorted and sent to various factories which was a revelation for mango people. While the governmental and mountaineering organisations have begun the clean-up, social and material, the main problem is the littering itself.
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Nepal even implemented commendable policy six years ago of refunding $4,000 if teams returned with at least 8 kg of Everest trash. Yet, only half the climbers return with their trash despite efforts from the government. Unfortunately, climbers fail on their journey and let go of their lives on the mountain. Such incidents are already as high as 11 for 2019. These bodies become extremely hard to recover too.
The hustle
The government is committed to making a significant change. Upcycled items are penetrating daily lives. Household items are being created from upcycled Everest trash. A lot of these sorted materials add decorative value. This is why the inspired idea of including artists in their quest struck a nerve. From dominant culture of polluting, we shall transform to a culture of upcycling, through art. Art never fails to lend hope and with growing awareness as well as action, we are hopeful indeed!
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What can you do
Before spreading awareness, practice what you preach!