Cimex BYD charity foundation joins long-term everest conservation drive

KATHMANDU: On the occasion of World Environment Day 2026, the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) and the Cimex BYD Charity Foundation (CBCF) reaffirm their commitment to protecting the fragile Himalayan ecosystem through the “Everest 1° Initiative”—a long-term environmental program focused on sustainable waste management, climate resilience, clean energy, and environmental stewardship in the Everest region.

Inspired by BYD’s vision to “Cool the Earth by 1°C”, CBCF joined hands with SPCC in 2025 to support innovative solutions addressing the growing environmental challenges facing Mt. Everest and the wider Khumbu region.

For decades, mountaineering activities and climate change have placed increasing pressure on the Everest ecosystem.

More than 80 tons of waste, including oxygen cylinders, plastics, climbing equipment, and human waste, remain on the mountain, threatening glaciers, water sources, and local communities.

A major milestone under the initiative was achieved during the Spring 2026 climbing season with the establishment of SPCC’s first ever Everest Rangers Base at Camp II. Supported by CBCF, SPCC deployed two dedicated Everest Rangers to strengthen environmental compliance, waste management oversight, climber awareness, and emergency support services in one of the world’s most challenging high-altitude environments.

Throughout the season, the Rangers monitored waste management activities above Base Camp, verified compliance with mandatory waste-return requirements (minimum 2 kg) from Camp III and Camp IV and promoted responsible waste disposal practices among expedition teams.

The Spring 2026 season also delivered significant environmental outcomes despite recording the highest number of climbers in Everest history, with 701 climbers participating across Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

Through SPCC’s waste management and monitoring operations:

• 1,226 kilograms of non-recyclable were recovered from Camp III and South Col.

• 210 EPI gas canisters and 1,769 poop bags were brought down from higher camps.

• An additional 6,522 kilograms of waste were transported through SPCC’s Khumbu Icefall checkpoint, including plastics, metal cans, paper, kitchen waste, tents, ropes, and other climbing materials.

Building on these achievements, SPCC and CBCF are working to further strengthen waste management infrastructure in the Everest region through the introduction of a climber Environmental Orientation Program, specialized human waste management systems, dedicated waste collection facilities at higher camps, and expanded drone-assisted waste transportation.

The partnership builds on the success of a 2025 collaboration with Airlift Technologies, through which advanced drone technology was deployed for high-altitude waste collection. During the pilot phase, 283 kilograms of waste were successfully collected and transported from Camp I, demonstrating the potential of technology-driven solutions for mountain conservation.

As part of its commitment to sustainable development, CBCF has also supported SPCC through the donation and installation of a 5 KVA Solar PV Power System at Everest Base Camp. The system provides clean and reliable renewable energy while reducing dependence on conventional fuel-based power sources in one of the world’s most remote environments.

Through the Everest 1° Initiative, SPCC and CBCF aim to create a long-term model for environmental stewardship that combines innovation, community engagement, clean energy, and responsible mountaineering practices to preserve the Himalayas for future generations.