Environmental change threatens the health and sustainability of the fragile ecosystem. With the recent introduction of processed and packaged goods, trash has become a major problem. Ladakhis are working proactively to resolve such issues. The Women's Alliance of Ladakh succeeded in banning plastic bags in 1998. Purified water stations are now available in many establishments to reduce the number of plastic water bottles generated by the thousands of tourist who come to Ladakh each summer. Ladakhis have planted thousands of trees in many rural areas. Volunteers and creative thinkers are needed to help design recycling programs, offer environmental education activities within the communities and schools, and brainstorm and problem-solve issues jointly with local Ladakhis.