Ama Dablam Clean-Up Project: A Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

Nepal needs no introduction when it comes to mountains, peaks and himalayas. Home to eight of the world’s fourteen tallest peaks, including Mount Everest, it is home to some of the world’s most iconic mountains, attracting adventurers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe every year.  

Famous for mountaineering, trekking, pilgrimage, and himalayan adventures, thousands of both national and international tourists roam around Nepal every year. However, in the recent times, with increasing footfall in the himalays, maintaining the top tier beauty of mountains untouched has increasingly become one of the mounting challenges for Nepal. With the increasing wastages and glitters around mountain regions from visitors, keeping environmental sustainability has been a major issues in our mountains. 

Recognizing the need to keeping our mountains pristine and aid environmental sustainability, eSewa, in collaboration with SPCC (Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee), Khumbu Gau Palika and the Airlift Foundation, is spearheading a groundbreaking project to clean our mountains, starting from the Ama Dablam Mountain: Ama Dablam Clean-Up Initiative.

Ama Dablam Clean-Up Initiative

Ama Dablam Clean-Up Initiative is a joint Social Corporate Responsibility project by eSewa with collaboration with SPCC (Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee), Khumbu Gau Palika and the Airlift Foundation. This project has been initiated to preserve the pristine beauty of the Ama Dablam Mountain region by undertaking a dedicated cleanup of the trails surrounding this iconic peak. Renowned as one of the most visited mountains in Nepal, Ama Dablam attracts adventurers and trekkers from around the globe every year. However, the increasing footfall has led to a buildup of waste along the trail, posing a threat to its natural environment and the well-being of local flora and fauna around.

This initiative aims to restore the trail’s purity by removing accumulated waste, promoting sustainable trekking practices, and raising awareness about the importance of responsible tourism. By safeguarding the trail and its surroundings, the project aspires to maintain Ama Dablam’s timeless allure for generations to come. This campaign not only addresses the pressing issue of waste management in the Himalayas but also highlights the potential of technology and collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Why Ama Dablam?

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Ama Dablam is a peak as beautiful as it is iconic. It is often referred to as the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas," a beacon for climbers and trekkers. Despite its allure, Ama Dablam faces severe environmental threats. The growing popularity of trekking and climbing expeditions has left trails of waste—plastic bottles, wrappers, and even human waste—threatening its pristine ecosystem. This initiative aims to restore and preserve the mountain`s natural beauty by implementing an eco-conscious cleanup effort that emphasizes sustainability, community involvement, and technological innovation.

The Power of Collaboration

This project unites diverse stakeholders, each bringing unique expertise to the table:

eSewa: Driving Sustainability and Innovation

As Nepal’s leading digital payment platform, eSewa supports eco-friendly solutions. The platform’s involvement includes funding, Social media for promoting environmental consciousness, and leveraging its network to raise awareness about sustainability.

SPCC and Khumbu Nagar Palika : Protecting the Himalayas

As local organizations and government from the region, the role of SPCC (Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee) and Khumbu Nagar Palika will be vital in leading the project. With years of experience in conservation and mountaineering, SPCC aids in logistics planning by identifying critical areas for waste collection and cleanup operations. 

Airlift Foundation

Their collaboration enables the use of drones to transport waste, reducing the strain on Sherpa porters and preventing accidents in hazardous terrain.

Nima Rinji Sherpa: Project Ambassador

Renowned mountaineer and environmental advocate, Nima Rinji Sherpa, brings authenticity and passion to the initiative. His involvement sheds light on the challenges faced by Sherpas and the transformative role of technology in ensuring safety and sustainability.

Technology at the Heart of the Initiative

One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the use of drones. These drones, capable of carrying up to 30 kg of waste, offer a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional porter-led cleanups. By preventing injuries caused by crevasse falls and reducing the physical burden on Sherpas, this innovation exemplifies how technology can be harnessed for good.

Goals and Expected Impact

The Ama Dablam Clean-Up Initiative aims to:

• Remove 1000 kg of waste from one of Nepal’s iconic peaks.
• Promote eco-conscious climbing and trekking practices.
• Support Sherpas and porters with safer, technology-backed logistics.
• Encourage local and international stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices.

Join Us in Making a Difference

This project is not just about cleaning a mountain; it’s about igniting a movement for environmental sustainability and community empowerment. With the combined efforts of eSewa, Khumbu Gau Palika SPCC, Airlift Foundation, and committed individuals like Nima Rinji Sherpa, we can ensure that Ama Dablam continues to inspire awe for generations to come.

Let’s work together to preserve the beauty of the Himalayas—because the mountains deserve our respect and care.