Batteries, paraffin, petrol, methylated spirits, oil, medical waste. Often the most difficult waste issue to address. Options include a sealable plastic barrel as a portable latrine or ground pits. The former allows all human waste to be removed from base camps for disposal lower down the mountain. However full containers are heavy and may require animals to transport them, lime is required to sterilise the waste and proper disposal lower down the mountain requires planning.
Pits are by far the most practical option for most expeditions.
Some Advice on Toilet Pits Ensure all expedition members know the designated toilet area, whether several small pits or one large one is used, Dig pits as deep as possible and situate them downhill of all camps and drinking water sources. On moraines or glacier camps, use crevasses if safe to do so or dig snow pits where they will not contaminate water supplies. In multi-expedition base camps communicate with other groups to establish distinct communal drinking water sources and communal toilet areas to avoid contamination. Note the position of the toilet area in your expedition report for the benefit of subsequent expeditions. Waste Management tips Remove excess packaging from supplies prior to departure for the mountains.