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"Ripple vs Bitcoin: Environmental Debate Reignites Over Proof-of-Work Energy Use"

news0725 2025. 5. 29. 08:35

 

 

On May 29, crypto-focused media outlet U.Today reported that Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen clarified the company’s stance on the controversial “Change the Code” campaign. In an official statement, Larsen asserted that Ripple did not fund the campaign, distancing the company from direct involvement in the initiative.

Larsen explained that the campaign was carried out in partnership with environmental group Greenpeace, focusing on the environmental implications of Bitcoin’s proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism. He emphasized that although the campaign criticized Bitcoin's energy usage, Ripple as a company was not directly responsible for launching or financing it.

Interestingly, Larsen also acknowledged that Bitcoin has made “notable progress” in its energy transition. Citing research from the University of Cambridge, he highlighted that much of Bitcoin mining now utilizes renewable energy sources such as hydropower, nuclear, and wind. He also pointed out the growing trend of repurposing flared gas—previously wasted energy—as a mining power source.

Despite Larsen’s recent remarks, Ripple has found itself back in the spotlight of criticism from the Bitcoin community. The backlash was partly triggered by Ripple's donation of a “Satoshi Skull” sculpture to one of the world’s largest Bitcoin museums. Critics argue that the donation contradicts Ripple’s past antagonistic stance toward Bitcoin, particularly given Larsen’s vocal participation in earlier anti-Bitcoin campaigns.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has also been critical of Bitcoin’s energy consumption. In earlier statements, he described proof-of-work as “deeply wasteful.” Notably, the official website for the “Change the Code” campaign remains active, fueling continued speculation about Ripple’s ongoing ideological position.

While Larsen’s recent clarification attempts to defuse the controversy, tensions persist within the crypto community. Many Bitcoin supporters remain skeptical of Ripple’s environmental messaging, viewing it as part of a broader rivalry between the two networks. As the debate over sustainability in blockchain technology intensifies, the philosophical divide between Bitcoin and Ripple is likely to remain a point of contention.