in bitcoin miningsolve complex mathematical calculations and cryptocurrency Special computers are used to create These processes consume a lot of energy. According to a new study, in 2020 112.5 million Bitcoin transaction completed. The Guardian, this is per transaction 9.5 ounces of e-waste or about two iPhone 12 mini He said it was the same weight.
According to the study findings, the increase in the use of crypto recycling crisis triggers anxiety. Researchers of the article, Resources, Conservation and Recycling published in the magazine.
Cryptocurrency mining exacerbates environmental crisis
Because of the high demand, computers that mine Bitcoin have an extremely short shelf life. Even according to the study, a Bitcoin mining device The average lifespan is only 1.29 years. This is approximately 33 thousand 800 tons means garbage. Each transaction is approx. two iPhone 12 mini corresponding to the weight 9.5 ounces of e-waste is producing.
Researchers, to cryptocurrency He argues that increased attention will more than double this garbage crisis. Data scientist from the Dutch Central Bank Alex de Vries and researcher from MIT’s Energy and Environmental Policy Research Center Christian Stoll announced its findings.
Dual, “E-waste, grounded toxic chemicals and from heavy metalscaused by inappropriate recycling weather and to water pollution a growing threat to our environment.” said. De Vries and Stoll find that the global demand for mining computers semiconductor the chip crisis He said it made it worse.
They recommended a proof-of-stake system
Based on the record increase in Bitcoin price this year, the team 74 thousand tons of e-waste Said it would show up. The researchers ‘existing cryptocurrency mining strategies’proof of share‘ as sustainable suggests replacing it with an alternative. with a market value of $50 billion cardanouses proof of stake. Business Insider, EthereumHe also wrote that he would switch to this system.
Nature Sustainability According to a 2018 study in the journal Bitcoin, in addition to physical waste, gold, platinum and uses more energy than other precious metals mining. also The New York Times revealed that Bitcoin transactions consume more electricity than the whole of Finland produces (about 91 terawatt-hours per year). Moreover, this has increased in the last 5 years and now accounts for about half of global electricity consumption.