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Mountains of overtourism

As Nepal makes 97 peaks free to climb, we look at the science of mountains, hiking, and the effect that so many climbers have on the environment.

As Nepal makes 97 peaks free to climb, we look at the science of overtourism – especially on mountains. How do so many visitors affect these environments, and what can be done? Plus, are mountains carbon sources, or carbon sinks? And why do we feel the drive to summit these peaks anyway? A psychologist specialising in thrill-seeking explains.

Also on the show, we take your questions, read out your comments, and look at what it takes to physically measure the height of a peak like Everest.

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements.

Presenter: Caroline Steel, with Chhavi Sachdev and Leonie Joubert
Producers: Margaret Sessa Hawkins, with Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, Imaan Moin and Lucy Davies

Available now

49 minutes

Last on

Sun 24 Aug 2025 19:06GMT

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  • Fri 22 Aug 2025 09:06GMT
  • Fri 22 Aug 2025 23:06GMT
  • Sat 23 Aug 2025 03:06GMT
  • Sat 23 Aug 2025 14:06GMT
  • Sun 24 Aug 2025 19:06GMT

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