On the occasion of World Environment Day 2026, the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) and the Cimex BYD Charity Foundation (CBCF) have partnered under the Everest 1° Initiative, a long-term environmental programme aimed at protecting the fragile Himalayan ecosystem through sustainable waste management, climate resilience, clean energy and environmental stewardship.

Inspired by BYD's global 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, increasing mountaineering activities and the impacts of climate change have placed mounting pressure on the Everest ecosystem. More than 80 tonnes of waste—including oxygen cylinders, plastics, climbing equipment and human waste—remain scattered across the mountain, posing a threat to 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, oversee waste management, raise awareness among climbers and provide emergency support services in one of the world's most challenging high-altitude environments.

Throughout the season, the rangers monitored waste management activities above Everest Base Camp, verified compliance with mandatory waste-return requirements of at least two kilograms from Camp III and Camp IV, and promoted responsible waste-disposal practices among expedition teams.

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

Through SPCC’s waste management and monitoring operations, 1,226 kilograms of non-recyclable waste were recovered from Camp III and the South Col. In addition, 210 EPI gas canisters and 1,769 human-waste bags were brought down from higher camps.

Another 6,522 kilograms of waste—including plastics, metal cans, paper, kitchen waste, tents, ropes and other climbing materials—were transported through SPCC's Khumbu Icefall checkpoint.

Building on these achievements, SPCC and CBCF plan to further strengthen waste-management infrastructure in the Everest region through a climber environmental orientation programme, specialised human-waste management systems, dedicated waste-collection facilities at higher camps and expanded drone-assisted waste transportation.

The partnership also builds on the success of a 2025 collaboration with Airlift Technologies, under 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 photovoltaic 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 of environmental stewardship that combines innovation, community engagement, clean energy and responsible mountaineering practices to help preserve the Himalayas for future generations.