Spring is go time for climbers who hope to summit Mount Everest, Earth’s highest peak above sea level. At the base camp, microplastics – likely from discarded mountaineering clothing, tents, ropes and boots – have been found in water and snow samples. Some of these villagers work at Everest base camp and are exposed there too. Camp Four, the last site that climbers occupy before they attempt to summit Everest, is covered with garbage and frozen, wind-swept feces. At Everest base camp, there are just collection barrels under toilets.

Source: The Hindu May 09, 2024 18:36 UTC