Blockchain Use Cases Against Climate Destruction

Abstract

Based on the current measures, it is unlikely that the targets of the Paris Agreement on climate change are to be achieved within the given time. Therefore, new solutions are needed to get climate change under control. Emerging technologies like blockchain allow for new ways to approach climate change. The blockchain serves only as an enabling technology for cryptocurrencies but is a stand-alone tool applicable for various purposes. This paper aims to shed light on the overlap between the areas of blockchain and climate change. Research in this area was examined for potential blockchain use cases to support climate action using a systematic literature review. The found applications can be grouped into the main categories of Emissions Trading and Green Certificates, Sustainable Energy, Sustainable Mobility, and Green Financing. Within these applications, blockchains are being used as supporting technology. Especially transparency, traceability, and immutability are particularly beneficial in blockchain-based applications against climate change. As a downside of the technology, controversial aspects of the blockchain are considered as the energy consumption of the technology.