As the popularity and value of Bitcoin continues to rise, so do concerns about its environmental impact. The process of mining Bitcoin - which involves solving complex mathematical equations in exchange for new Bitcoins - requires a significant amount of energy consumption. In fact, some estimates suggest that the energy consumed by all global cryptocurrency mining could soon surpass that used by entire countries.
But is this really cause for alarm? Some argue that Bitcoin's positive impact on financial inclusivity and decentralization outweighs any potential environmental harm. Others believe it's time for the industry to start taking responsibility for its carbon footprint.
In this discussion, we'll explore both sides of the debate around the environmental impact of Bitcoin mining. Share your thoughts on whether or not you think this is an issue worth addressing, and earn SATS while doing it!
It's always worth asking "Compared to what?" The endless military interventions underlying dollar hegemony are unquestionably more environmentally damaging than bitcoin mining and environmental damage ranks pretty low on the list of costs of the American Empire.
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There isn't really much worth discussing. Miners are incentivized to chase green alternatives if it makes financial sense to do so. The act of consuming energy by itself is entirely meaningless but often the only focal point in this discussion. If you are concerned about the environmental impact which is a valid concern then your battle should be ensuring green alternatives continue to get cheaper, encouraging the miners that have not switched to green energy to switch, and also to advocate for transparent ways to effectively monitor and estimate Bitcoin's overall energy mix in order to accurately chart progress.
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Who the fuck is this guy and how did he find SN being so 2013 minded ? :) :) :)
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which involves solving complex mathematical equations in exchange for new Bitcoins
Stopped reading here lol
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TOTAL NONSENSE
"debate worth having"
YOU ARE DELUSIONAL.
THERE IS NO "DEBATE".
THERE ARE VIOLENT, MENTALLY ILL PSYCHOPATHS! WTF IS WRONG WITH YOU THAT YOU ARE DIGNIFYING THEM AS IF THEY WERE ACTING LIKE CIVILIZED HUMANS?!?
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more co2 = more plants
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Environmental impact is not a bitcoin question but an energy source question. You really need to ask yourself why aren't we hearing the concern about air conditioning, Christmas lights, ect? Bitcoin is hope for humanity. The energy consumption is testament to its value. The real question is do we want to live in a free world or do we want to be slaves. So no, I dont think it is a debate worth having. The miners should be able to chose what they do. Yo choose what you do. I choose what I do. Period.
If someone wants to learn why is bitcoin worth so much I'm happy tp talk but if they dont get it and think we should debate the energy question I have no interest because they have already decided. We can debate endlessly but its a question of preference and choice. These people want to control others that have different preferences. Nothing to discuss.
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