KATHMANDU, MARCH 26
More than 400 climbers from around the world are preparing to attempt to climb the world's highest peak from the Nepal side this season. One of the mountaineers arriving in Nepal next month for his Everest bid is Dr Ruben F. Salinas from the USA.
Ruben is a Latino medtech serial entrepreneur, government advisor, and activist supporting underrepresented leaders in life sciences. He has pioneered and patented multiple medical technologies, several of which have become standards of care globally. Ruben has been selected by Uplift Aerospace to participate in an upcoming suborbital spaceflight.
Ruben became the first civilian to go supersonic in a Space Support Vehicle as a support pilot in the legendary Lockheed F-104 Starfighter and he has extensively studied the potential of high-altitude mountaineering and space exploration to evoke intense neuropsychological responses associated with the emotion of awe. Ruben is an advocate for the use of virtual reality in emotional well-being and education.
Ruben has dedicated his life to advancing medical science and the technology around diagnosis for complex obstetrical conditions as well as research on eliciting the overview effect with VR.
Before embarking on his Everest journey locally managed by TAG Nepal along with Mike Hamill's 'Climbing the Seven Summits', Ruben has exclusively shared insights on mountain climbing and his plans with The Himalayan Times. EXCERPTS:
Why are you climbing Mt Everest this season?
I am embarking on a Mt. Everest summit attempt this season, as the culmination of a deeply personal and spiritual journey that began in 2019. As I approach my 50th year, I am driven to conclude what I consider the 'first half of life' with this profound physical and psychological challenge.
My fascination with this project dates to 2007, and I am thrilled to undertake it this year. My Ph.D. research delved into the intricate emotion of awe, and I have extensively studied the potential of high-altitude mountaineering and space exploration to evoke intense neuropsychological responses associated with this emotion.
Climate crisis poses a huge threat to mountain communities. In your opinion, what could be done to protect the mountain environment?
In my view, safeguarding mountain communities and their environment from the ravages of climate change necessitates a comprehensive strategy that hinges on deliberate collaboration and coordination among local communities, non-local stakeholders, and governments.
Local communities are critical for the proper implementation of conservation measures to protect mountain ecosystems and maintain the integrity of watersheds, which are vital for both local communities and downstream regions. They must be involved in decision-making relating to land use, resource management, and climate adaptation. Empowering these local communities to participate in conservation efforts has been proven to enhance their effectiveness while also fostering a sense of ownership and stewardship.
As Western climbers, it is important for us to recognize that we are more than simply guests in the mountain communities that we so enjoy. One area where we can easily help is in promoting sustainable expedition practices, such as those with low-impact infrastructure, responsible behavior, and equitable distribution of economic benefits. We can also help with raising awareness globally to mobilize support for conservation efforts and to encourage sustainable expedition practices.
Finally, government involvement is critically important. Because mountain ecosystems transcend national boundaries, international cooperation is essential. Multinational collaboration can facilitate the exchange of knowledge, technology, and resources to address common challenges. Regional agreements and initiatives such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) can provide frameworks for collective action. Conducting collaborative research into the impacts of climate change on mountain environments is also necessary to inform effective cross-border policies and management strategies.
Unhealthy competition is on the rise in mountaineering, what's your take on it?
I don't think competition per se is necessarily unhealthy. There does appear to be a rising need, sometimes seemingly obsessive and incessant, to "be the first to XYZ", largely driven by the impact of social media across cultures.
Social media platforms allow climbers to share their achievements in real-time. Our instant gratification and immediate sharing culture create pressure to be the first to achieve a particular feat, as some strive for recognition and validation from their online communities. This encourages risk-taking behavior, which raises important ethical considerations around safety and responsibility.
As climbers, I think it's important for our community to balance the pursuit of record-breaking achievements with safety, ethics, and the well-being of both individuals and the environment.
What's your suggestion to foreign and local outfitters in safeguarding mountaineering ethics?
Safeguarding mountaineering ethics is crucial for all outfitters to ensure the safety of climbers, preserve the integrity of mountain environments, and uphold the values of responsible outdoor recreation. Environmental conservation, cultural sensitivity, and responsible behavior in mountain environments are important topics that should be prioritized. Outfitters should also prioritize the education of both staff and clients about safety protocols and "Leave No Trace" principles.
The best outfitters, in my opinion, are those who do the former and promote responsible tourism practices that support local economies through hiring local staff, sourcing supplies locally, and contributing to community development initiatives.
By prioritizing these considerations, outfitters can contribute to safeguarding mountaineering ethics and ensuring that mountaineering activities are conducted in a manner that is safe, responsible, and respectful of the environment and local communities.
Sherpa guides are the backbone to mountain climbing. What do you want to say about them?
Without Sherpas, Western climbing expeditions to Everest and other Himalayan peaks would simply not be possible. The Sherpa people play an indispensable role as skilled guides and mountaineers and as guardians of the mountain's spiritual heritage. Their intimate knowledge of the treacherous terrain and their remarkable resilience at high altitudes make them invaluable partners for Western climbers.
I am especially interested in Sherpa's deep spiritual connection to Everest, viewing the mountain not merely as a challenge to be conquered, but as a sacred entity deserving reverence and respect. The Sherpa's spiritual reverence deeply influences their climbing approach and fosters a sense of humility and harmony with nature that contrasts with the often ego-driven motivations of Western climbers. I truly believe that Sherpas' spiritual beliefs offer countless valuable insights into sustainable and respectful approaches to mountaineering for climbers from around the world.
