Understands the perilous mountain in Pakistan is recognized by Wittener
In the picturesque town of Witten, mountaineer Sven Kortmann is making waves with his calls for responsible mountaineering. Kortmann, a passionate advocate for "fair mountaineering," emphasizes the importance of careful preparation for mountain tours to ensure independence on the mountain.
Kortmann's concerns are not limited to the safety of climbers, but extend to the respect for the culture of high mountain populations and the natural environment. He advocates for climbing without oxygen and avoiding litter or properly disposing of packaging.
Recent events have underscored the unpredictability of mountain climbing, even for experienced climbers. Kortmann cites the unfortunate accident of Bavarian mountaineer Laura Dahlmeier as a warning. The tragedy occurred on Laila Peak in Pakistan, a mountain now experiencing significant climate-related dangers and changes.
Laila Peak, once reliably snow-covered, especially on its challenging north-west face, now faces climate-induced degradation. Kortmann points to increased rockfalls, exceptionally warm and dry summers, increased severity and frequency of natural hazards, and changes in climbing conditions as evidence of this degradation.
The warming temperatures and reduced snow cover have left the mountain's rock surfaces unstable, with thin snow patches in places where once there was deep snow cover. The diminished snow and ice buffers have contributed to a higher risk of rockfalls and avalanches. In the summer preceding the 2025 climbing season, temperatures in nearby valleys reached record highs, further hastening snowmelt on the peak.
These changes have made climbing attempts more dangerous and less successful in recent years. In fact, they culminated tragically in the death of German Olympian Laura Dahlmeier, who was killed by falling rocks on Laila Peak in July 2025 during an ascent under increasingly unstable conditions.
Kortmann's perspective, supported by other mountaineers and guides, highlights that climate change effects—warming temperatures, lack of regular snowfall, and resultant increased rockfall—are transforming Laila Peak’s environment, posing objective and escalating dangers to climbers.
In addition to his concerns about Laila Peak, Kortmann distinguishes himself from selfie climbers who prioritize comfort and minimal effort for social media. He encourages respect for the culture of high mountain populations and nature in all mountaineering activities.
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Sven Kortmann, after his advocacy for responsible mountaineering in Witten, has extended his concerns to the sport of hockey, urging players to respect the rules and the spirit of fair play on the ice just as they would on a mountain. Even in the world of sports, Kortmann believes in playing without shortcuts or disregard for tradition, pushing for a clean game free from dirty play or littering the arena.
