Zachary Zaitzeff Commends Use of Mount Everest Trash for Art

PHILADELPHIA, PA, December 27, 2012

Although Mount Everest is regarded as one of the most remote natural wonders in the world, it has not remained untouched by trash left behind from those who have climbed it in the past. However, a recent article from The Daily Mail highlights the actions of one creative group, known as Da Mind Tree, which has found a way to repurpose the refuse into works of art. The article explains, "Exhibits, which include representations of a yak and wind chimes, were crafted from empty oxygen bottles, gas canisters, food cans, torn tents, ropes, boots and twisted aluminum ladders dumped by climbers over decades on the slopes of the world's highest mountain." Zachary Zaitzeff responds noting that while he did not witness much waste during his Mount Everest summit, he appreciates the public attention the art exhibit is collecting in regards to environmental protection.

According to The Daily Mail, "Although climbers need to deposit $4,000...with the government, which is refunded only after they provide proof of having brought their rubbish down from the mountain, activists say effective monitoring is difficult." While Da Mind Tree exhibit may showcase the amounts of waste left behind from climbers, Zachary Zaitzeff notes that the environment is not as grim as one may believe. He comments, "When I was on Everest I was surprised at how clean it was. I had always heard stories that Everest was a dumping ground. It does not seem that way anymore. The climbers, and especially the Sherpas, are very respectful of the Mountain."

Zachary Zaitzeff continues by noting that even those who make the journey to the top of Mount Everest remain dedicated to collecting waste left behind by others. Reflecting on his own summit experiences, Zachary Zaitzeff states, "Climbing down after my successful summit bid, my climbing guide Phu Tashi found an old oxygen canister and put it in his pack to get it recycled. The Sherpas are offered about $100 for every old oxygen canister that they find and bring down. After seeing how much waste was used in Da Mind Tree exhibit, I wonder if Phu Tashi's found canister has become part of a work of art."

ABOUT:

Zachary Zaitzeff is the owner of two notable New York City burger joints, known as Zaitzeff Burgers. Opened in 2003, this popular restaurant has redefined the fast casual dining experience with delicious menu options that feature fresh and organic ingredients. In addition to his accomplishments as a successful restaurateur, Zachary Zaitzeff is also known for his experience as a mountaineer. Over the past few years, Zaitzeff has reached the summit of Mount Everest, as well as climbed historic mountains such as those in the Andes region, Mount McKinley and Mount Kilimanjaro. In addition to these pursuits, Zachary Zaitzeff is recognized for producing interesting abstract works of art, specializing in oil on canvas, as well as mixed media.