Skip to main content

Safe Bank

Published: 2026-07-09

Environmentally friendly crypto-assets in the context of sustainable development in the digital economy

Arkadiusz Lelek Logo ORCID
Section: Problems and Opinions
https://doi.org/10.26354/bb.6.1.102.2026

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyse crypto-assets with a limited environmental impact and to assess the impact of the Proof of Work mechanism on the natural environment.

Methodology: The study is of a review and analytical nature and is based on an analysis of academic literature, reports and regulatory documents from 2010 to 2025. The analysis examined the impact of PoW on energy consumption, carbon footprint, electronic waste and socio-economic aspects, and compared it with the Proof of Stake and Pure Proof of Stake mechanisms.

Results: The analysis showed that PoW is characterised by high energy consumption and a significant environmental impact. Alternative consensus mechanisms are characterised by lower energy consumption and may reduce the negative environmental impact of blockchain technology.

Conclusions: Crypto-assets with a limited environmental impact may represent a direction for the development of more energy-efficient blockchain solutions; however, they require further research and greater transparency regarding environmental data.

JEL Codes

G20, Q56, Q33, G18

Citation rules

Lelek, A. (2026). Environmentally friendly crypto-assets in the context of sustainable development in the digital economy. Safe Bank, 102(1), 71–89. https://doi.org/10.26354/bb.6.1.102.2026

Cited by / Share

Vol. 102 No. 1 (2026)
Published: 2026-07-09


ISSN: 1429-2939
eISSN: 2544-7068
Ikona DOI 10.26354

Publisher
Bankowy Fundusz Gwarancyjny

-->
This website uses cookies for proper operation, in order to use the portal fully you must accept cookies.