What Impact Has Everest Tourism Had On Other Countries?

This chapter examines the rapid growth of high-altitude climbing and trekking in the Mt Everest region of Nepal, highlighting the changes to the built environment, economic and social-cultural changes associated with tourism. The true spirit of mountaineering adventure has disappeared, leading to government restrictions on climbing. Climate scientists studied the effects of tourism on the Himalayan region during the 2019 National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Everest Expedition.

The growing popularity of Mount Everest has resulted in pollution and damage to the fragile ecosystem of the region. Glaciers on the mountain provide freshwater for one-fifth of the global population, but due to the extreme conditions, little is available. Tourism to Mt. Everest brings $300 million to Nepal every year, but it also brings human toll, with over 300 deaths on the mountain since 1953.

Despite the positive economic impact on the local tourism industry, the massive influx of tourists has caused major environmental problems, including an unstable economy and sanitation concerns. The environment and the permanent employment opportunities in the tourism sector have been affected by the increasing number of visitors.

As Nepal becomes one of Asia’s poorest countries, tourism has become the lifeblood of the mountain economy, but it also threatens the stability of the entire region. With more people visiting the mountain each year, Mount Everest has grown increasingly polluted, leading to contamination of the local environment. An estimated 50 tonnes of mountaineering rubbish has accumulated beyond the Everest Base Camp, mostly consisting of waste from the climbers.

How does Mount Everest contribute to the economy of Nepal?

Mount Everest’s tourism is crucial for Nepal, providing employment, infrastructure development, and revenue generation. It also supports local communities, including tea houses, lodges, guides, and porters who share their knowledge and culture. However, the region faces sustainability challenges such as overcrowding, environmental degradation, and waste management issues. To address these, responsible tourism practices such as waste management campaigns, conservation efforts, and controlled climbing permits are being promoted, aiming to strike a balance between tourism and environmental preservation.

What are the side effects of going to Mount Everest?

Ascent to the summit of Mount Everest may result in the onset of symptoms associated with high-altitude sickness, including headaches, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, lack of coordination, and excessive coughing, which may reach a severity sufficient to cause rib fracture.

What are the negative effects of tourism in Nepal?

Tourism in Nepal has been a significant contributor to environmental issues, including pollution, waste, animal cruelty, and exploitation. Despite these negative impacts, attitudes are changing, with younger generations becoming more socially and environmentally aware. Tourism companies are shifting their focus towards sustainable practices, and sustainability should not be a trend or marketing hook. Royal Mountain Travel, a partner in this effort, is at the forefront of creating a more sustainable tourism industry in Nepal.

They have adopted new technologies to reduce environmental impact, promoted equality through cultural shifts, and created programs like the Community Homestay Network, which brings tourism benefits to rural communities. This shift in attitude is not just a marketing tool but a fundamental change in the travel industry.

What are 3 main negative impacts of tourism?

The practice of tourism has been identified as a significant contributor to the overconsumption of natural resources, which in turn has been linked to a range of environmental issues. These include soil erosion, pollution, habitat loss, and increased pressure on endangered species, particularly in areas where resources are scarce. The impact of tourism on local land use is also a cause for concern.

Why is Mount Everest important to the world?

Mount Everest, located between Nepal and Tibet, is the highest point in the world at 8, 849 meters (29, 032 feet). Named after George Everest, the mountain was named after him in the nineteenth century. The Tibetan name for the mountain is Chomolungma, meaning “Mother Goddess of the World”, while the Nepali name is Sagarmatha. The first recorded climbers were Edmund Hillary and his Tibetan guide Tenzing Norgay in 1953. The first records of Everest’s height were made in 1856 by British surveyors in their Great Trigonometrical Survey of the Indian subcontinent.

The Himalayan mountains have long been home to indigenous groups, including the famous Sherpa people. The Sherpas have valuable experience in mountain climbing and logistical help, making most climbs of Everest possible. Their traditional lifestyle includes farming, herding, and trade, and they are accustomed to low oxygen levels due to their high altitude year-round living.

What is the impact of tourism on Mount Everest?

Nepal’s heavily reliant tourism economy can worsen environmental degradation, leading to a grim future for the landlocked country. The ecological damage caused by climate change, such as littering, microplastic pollution, and human waste, is further exacerbated by tourists. While mountaineering has provided employment opportunities and world record holders, it is crucial to work more proactively to protect the Everest. Sajina, a Master’s degree holder at the City University of Hong Kong, is an editorial intern at Earth.

Org, focusing on public policy and sustainable development, plastic pollution, minimalist lifestyle, and education. Her goal is to inspire individuals to create positive changes that benefit society and the planet.

How does Mount Everest impact people?

Mount Everest climbers ascending above 26, 000 feet face the “death zone”, where oxygen levels are so low that cells die, judgment becomes impaired, and climbers may experience heart attack, stroke, or severe altitude sickness. Human bodies function best at sea level, where oxygen levels are adequate for brains and lungs. However, to summit the world’s tallest peak at 29, 029 feet (8, 848 meters), climbers must brave the “death zone”, where oxygen levels are so low that the body starts to die minute by minute and cell by cell.

What is the economic impact of Mount Everest?

It is estimated that Everest contributes approximately 0. 4 percent to Nepal’s gross domestic product (GDP). The mountain provides income and employment opportunities for thousands of locals, including sherpas, porters, cooks, and hotel owners.

What negative effects have climbing expeditions and tourism had on Nepal?

The increase in human activity in mountaineering regions, coupled with soil erosion and waste generation, has resulted in a notable rise in deforestation. This is due to the growing demand for firewood, which is used by climbers for warmth and sustenance.

What are the negative impacts of tourism in the Himalayas?

The development of tourism-related infrastructure, such as roads and lodging, has led to significant environmental damage in the Himalayan ecosystem. Overcrowding in hill stations has caused soil erosion, vegetation damage, and disturbance of wildlife habitats. The increased demand for water, electricity, and other resources has stressed local ecosystems and infrastructure, resulting in overuse and depletion. Tourism produces a large amount of waste, including plastic and packaging, which can contaminate local waterways and harm flora and fauna.

The influx of vehicles and increased construction can lead to air and noise pollution, affecting both the environment and residents. The development of tourism-related infrastructure, such as roads and lodging, can result in deforestation and habitat fragmentation, upsetting ecosystems and endangering species. The irresponsible tourism in the fragile Himalayas has caused significant loss to life and property.