Cryptocurrency mining is a process that secures transactions and adds them to public ledgers called blockchains, using special computers known as “miners.” “Miners” utilize complex math equations that monitor and verify new crypto transactions – the first miner who completes all steps receives what’s known as a block reward, paid out in cryptocurrency that’s being mined; these rewards may either be kept as investments or cashed out immediately. Mining can be expensive as some currencies require ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit chips or large servers that consume electricity at rates that could easily cost $1/kWh!

Crypto mining’s energy-intensive nature also has an adverse effect on the environment. While some global crypto mining operations have taken steps towards sustainability, many still rely on fossil fuels to produce enough electricity to run their processing systems – this creates carbon emissions which contribute to climate change. Furthermore, energy systems may rely heavily on water as a resource, from hydropower plants generating power or extracting and transporting coal.

As such, the mining industry has come under increased scrutiny for its environmental effects. A report from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that Bitcoin mining consumes over 13 million kilowatt hours annually – or roughly equivalent to five medium-sized power plants’ consumption annually – with this figure set to double by 2024 due to growing interest in mined cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin.

Furthermore, the current proof-of-work model is open to attacks that could destabilise blockchain. If an attacker gains control of 51% of mining power on the blockchain, they could invalidate transactions and hold the entire system hostage – this doesn’t pose much of a threat for popular mined currencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, but non-mined cryptocurrencies with shorter block processing times or smaller daily volumes may be particularly susceptible.

Due to these risks, more countries are beginning to regulate crypto mining and energy consumption. Furthermore, global governance must devise ways of discouraging crypto miners from seeking regions with cheap energy subsidies or lax regulations as possible mining grounds – this may require cooperation among governments, private companies, regulators and individuals themselves. Individuals wishing to support crypto mining by purchasing coins directly or joining mining pools can help make networks more sustainable while earning returns on their investments.