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Sustainable Blockchain: Solutions And Challenges In Reducing The Ecological Impact Of Cryptocurrencies

Author

Listed:
  • PURCAREA LIVIU

    (THE BUCHAREST UNIVERSITY OF ECONOMIC STUDIES, BUCHAREST)

  • RADULESCU CARMEN VALENTINA

    (THE BUCHAREST UNIVERSITY OF ECONOMIC STUDIES, BUCHAREST)

  • MANESCU ANDREEA MARIA

    (THE BUCHAREST UNIVERSITY OF ECONOMIC STUDIES, BUCHAREST)

Abstract

Blockchain technology has rapidly transformed the way decentralized systems operate, offering new possibilities for transparency, security, and autonomy. However, these benefits come with a notable drawback: the significant environmental cost associated with blockchain consensus mechanisms — particularly Proof of Work (PoW) Möser et all (2021). This paper examines the environmental impact of blockchain and investigates more sustainable alternatives, such as Proof of Stake (PoS) and other energy-efficient models. Using Ethereum’s transition from PoW to PoS as a central case study, along with examples such as Algorand and Chia, we explore how different architectural decisions affect energy consumption. Our analysis, based on recent academic research and technical data, suggests that sustainable blockchain models are technically viable—but their success depends on broader systemic changes, including clear regulations, governance reforms, and industry-wide engagement. In conclusion, blockchain can evolve into a sustainable technology, but only through a responsible and coordinated effort

Suggested Citation

  • Purcarea Liviu & Radulescu Carmen Valentina & Manescu Andreea Maria, 2025. "Sustainable Blockchain: Solutions And Challenges In Reducing The Ecological Impact Of Cryptocurrencies," Annals - Economy Series, Constantin Brancusi University, Faculty of Economics, vol. 5, pages 261-266, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:cbu:jrnlec:y:2025:v:5:p:261-266
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Max J. Krause & Thabet Tolaymat, 2018. "Quantification of energy and carbon costs for mining cryptocurrencies," Nature Sustainability, Nature, vol. 1(11), pages 711-718, November.
    2. Johannes Sedlmeir & Hans Ulrich Buhl & Gilbert Fridgen & Robert Keller, 2020. "The Energy Consumption of Blockchain Technology: Beyond Myth," Business & Information Systems Engineering: The International Journal of WIRTSCHAFTSINFORMATIK, Springer;Gesellschaft für Informatik e.V. (GI), vol. 62(6), pages 599-608, December.
    3. Max J. Krause & Thabet Tolaymat, 2018. "Author Correction: Quantification of energy and carbon costs for mining cryptocurrencies," Nature Sustainability, Nature, vol. 1(12), pages 814-814, December.
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