A 23-year-old crypto user aims to raise awareness for global financial literacy by displaying a Bitcoin flag atop Mount Everest. Despite concerns of overtourism and environmental impact, he pledges to leave no trace.
A 35-year-old cryptocurrency enthusiast is gearing up to unfurl an eye-catching orange flag bearing the emblem of Bitcoin (BTC) atop the renowned summit of Mount Everest, aiming to amplify awareness around global financial literacy.
As per a recent post on X dated February 28, Hafiz Patel revealed intentions to embark on the ascent of the world's tallest peak sometime within the window of April to May, with plans to proudly display the BTC flag at the summit before descending back to base camp. The expedition is poised to shine a spotlight on the 'global disparity in access to financial education,' Patel asserted.
Reportedly, Patel delved into the world of cryptocurrencies back in 2011, initially purchasing approximately $340 worth of Bitcoin, subsequently diversifying his portfolio into Ether (ETH) and nonfungible tokens (NFTs). Originally hailing from Bangladesh and now operating a thriving business in Singapore, his purported net worth soared to over $300 million as of January 2022.
The issue of overtourism at Everest has escalated in recent years, with the summit gaining prominence across social media platforms, attracting numerous inexperienced climbers ill-prepared for the extreme conditions. Tragically, in 2023, eighteen individuals lost their lives in pursuit of reaching the pinnacle of the world, with many succumbing to the perils of the 'death zone' situated at altitudes surpassing 8,000 meters.
Moreover, Everest has become plagued by the menace of waste, with climbers leaving behind a trail of discarded oxygen tanks, food remnants, camping gear, and even human waste strewn along the route to the summit. Patel affirmed his commitment to meticulously clean up after himself, vowing to carry back down everything he brought up, leaving behind nothing but footprints.
“I am dedicated to the principle of 'leave no trace,' which includes refraining from planting flags. The preservation of Everest's pristine environment holds paramount importance to me. I am committed to minimizing my environmental footprint and ensuring minimal impact,” asserted Patel during an interview with Cointelegraph.
He further stated:
“Bitcoin has truly revolutionized my life since its inception. With Bitcoin on the brink of hitting its all-time high, I am resolved to proudly unfurl the Bitcoin flag at the summit of the world.”
Past endeavors have seen other climbers endeavoring to champion cryptocurrency atop mountain peaks. In 2018, three cryptocurrency aficionados had announced plans to deposit a Ledger wallet at the summit of Everest, yet tragically, one of the sherpas accompanying the trio perished during the descent. In 2023, another climber financed his expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, partially through Bitcoin, as part of efforts to bolster awareness surrounding financial literacy.
At the time of drafting this article, Bitcoin had momentarily surged to a 2024 peak price of $64,000 before undergoing a slight dip, falling below $61,000.