Mountain Cleanup Campaign

Expected Impact:
Make mountain cleanup operations safer, faster, and more sustainable by integrating drone technology, reducing Sherpa risk, and setting a precedent for eco-friendly tourism practices worldwide.

Project Duration: 1 month

Overview
Thematic Area:
Environment and Engineering

Description:
Nepal’s mountains are global treasures, yet tourism growth has resulted in increased waste and pollution in these fragile ecosystems. Traditional cleanup efforts depend on Sherpas manually collecting trash or costly helicopter trips — both posing safety and financial challenges. This project introduces a drone-assisted mountain cleanup campaign that will transform how waste is removed from high-altitude regions.

Drones capable of carrying 20 kg per trip will be deployed, completing up to 50 trips per cleanup, significantly reducing the physical risks to Sherpas. In addition, local Sherpas will be trained in drone operation, ensuring that the initiative is sustainable and community-led. This approach not only safeguards Sherpa health but also lowers costs and carbon emissions compared to helicopter transport.

Outcomes:

• 1,000 kg of mountain waste removed
• 5 Sherpas trained in drone operation
• 50 drone trips completed per cleanup operation
• Cleanup operations conducted at 6,000 meters elevation
• Safer and more efficient cleanup process implemented

This campaign demonstrates the power of technology in solving complex environmental challenges. By using drones, the project reduces the physical burden on Sherpas, minimizes helicopter dependency, and offers a replicable model for sustainable mountain cleanup worldwide. Training Sherpas in drone operation also creates local capacity and ownership, ensuring long-term impact. The campaign serves as a powerful statement on the importance of combining innovation, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment to preserve Nepal’s mountain landscapes for future generations.