Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have left their mark on the world, but not in the way most people predicted. In a typical Bitcoin mining operation, powerful banks of computers are dedicated to crunching out “blockchain” numbers and processing transactions. Nearly three-quarters of cryptocurrencies are mined in China, generating anywhere up to 10 million tons of carbon dioxide. Now that China is trying to cut back on the air pollution that often seems to swallow cities, the country’s chief planning regulator has unveiled a paper with a proposal to ban Bitcoin mining, saying it has “seriously wasted resources.” China has been considering a Bitcoin mining ban since last year when it asked local governments to encourage firms to quit the business by jacking up power prices and issuing stronger environmental rules. Now it seems they will take it a step further and outlaw bitcoin mining altogether. Whether it will wind up benefitting the planet, we’ll have to see. There’s always the possibility that miners will move their operations elsewhere.
Bitcoin mining pollutes the planet. China wants to ban it altogether
More of Today's Solutions
These easy-to-grow plants will help repel mosquitos from your garden
No one wants to be pestered by mosquitos while sitting in their garden. At the same time, almost everyone loves to be surrounded by ...
Read MoreHow looking at art can boost problem-solving skills
If you appreciate The Optimist Daily’s focus on solutions, then you’re probably a fan of problem-solving in your own life. Well, if you’re looking ...
Read MoreHubble takes beautiful image of galaxies “dancing”
The Hubble Space Telescope ventured into space over three decades ago in 1990, and has observed around 50,000 celestial bodies to date. During this ...
Read MoreDo you have mushrooms on your lawn? Here’s why that’s a good thing
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Bright red toadstools, strange jelly fungus, and round puffball mushrooms growing in your lawn may appear worrisome at ...
Read More
