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Accounting for cryptocurrency climate impacts

South Pole Carbon
The report examines the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with cryptocurrencies, proposing a hybrid allocation method to attribute these emissions to stakeholders based on cryptocurrency holdings and transactions. It highlights the environmental impact of Proof-of-Work protocols, the efficiency of Proof-of-Stake, and offers guidance aligned with GHG Protocol standards.
Research
21 April 2022

Environmental impact of digital assets

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
The report highlights the environmental impact of digital assets, focusing on energy-intensive proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanisms in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. It underscores significant carbon emissions and advocates transitioning to less energy-demanding models, renewable energy use, and cross-border cooperation. Policy recommendations include targeted regulation, enhanced data transparency, and leveraging distributed ledger technologies for sustainable finance.
Research
1 December 2022

Harnessing digital finance for sustainability: An integrative review and research agenda

The report reviews the role of digital finance in advancing sustainability goals through bibliometric and thematic analysis of 168 studies. It identifies key themes like financial inclusion, green finance, and fintech, proposing a conceptual framework to align digital innovation with sustainable development, fostering eco-friendly investments, and promoting global financial inclusion.
Research
30 November 2024

Green fintech: Sustainability of Bitcoin

The report examines Bitcoin's environmental sustainability within the Green FinTech framework. It highlights Bitcoin's significant energy consumption during mining, correlating positively with miner revenue. While offering financial inclusivity, Bitcoin's carbon emissions challenge its environmental credentials. The study advocates for renewable energy adoption in cryptocurrency mining to align with sustainability goals.
Research
8 June 2022

The hidden environmental cost of cryptocurrency: How Bitcoin mining impacts climate, water and land

United Nations (UN)
Bitcoin mining has significant environmental impacts, driven by its reliance on electricity-intensive processes. In 2020-2021, mining consumed 173 TWh of electricity, primarily from fossil fuels, and emitted 86 Mt CO2, contributing to climate change, water scarcity, and land use issues. Global regulatory action is urgently needed.
Research
20 November 2023

U.S. climate policy and blockchain innovation in future smart and sustainable cities

This report explores blockchain's potential to address climate challenges and foster smart, sustainable cities. It highlights blockchain's capacity for decentralisation, transparency, and efficiency in urban governance, renewable energy, and civic participation. Recommendations include multi-stakeholder collaboration, educational initiatives, and human-centred design to ensure ethical, inclusive implementation for climate resilience and innovation.
Research
10 September 2023

Infrastructure tokenization: Does blockchain have a role in the financing of infrastructure?

The World Bank
The report explores the potential of blockchain technology in financing infrastructure projects. It evaluates blockchain's capabilities in enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in infrastructure tokenisation, while addressing challenges like regulatory constraints, market adoption, and technical barriers. The findings highlight both opportunities and limitations for integrating blockchain into infrastructure financing.
Research
18 April 2023

Impact tokens: A blockchain-based solution for impact investing

International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD)
The report explores the concept of impact tokens, blockchain-based tools designed to unlock investments for sustainable projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These tokens enhance transparency, foster financial inclusion, improve data collection, and incentivise sustainable behaviours. Case studies illustrate applications across energy, agriculture, and waste management sectors, demonstrating potential in addressing global challenges. .
Research
19 April 2019

Responsible investment and blockchain

Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI)
The report explores blockchain technology's relevance to responsible investment, highlighting its potential to enhance transparency, automate processes, and improve ESG data tracking. It discusses blockchain's implications for shareholder voting, decentralised systems, financial inclusivity, and sustainability. Practical challenges, including regulation, technical integration, and energy use, are also addressed. .
Research
17 April 2018

The finfluencer appeal: Investing in the age of social media

CFA Institute
The report titled examines the role of financial influencers ("finfluencers") in shaping investment decisions, especially among Gen-Z investors. It highlights the regulatory challenges posed by finfluencers, explores their content's appeal to younger audiences, and provides recommendations for enhancing financial literacy and regulatory frameworks.
Research
23 January 2024