Crypto’s Dirty Secret: How Mining It Is Hurting the Planet and Farms

Bitcoin’s digital boom is hiding a dark truth, its environmental cost. A new UN University report reveals Bitcoin now consumes more energy per dollar generated than copper or gold mining. Between 2020 and 2021, every dollar of Bitcoin created caused about $0.35 worth of environmental damage, placing it among the world’s most polluting industries.

Each transaction is powered by energy-hungry mining farms where thousands of computers race to solve puzzles. Most of that power still comes from coal and gas, releasing greenhouse gases and harmful fine particles that threaten air quality. A Harvard study found Bitcoin mining significantly raises PM2.5 pollution, linked to heart and respiratory diseases.

Bitcoin’s total energy use now rivals that of Poland or Ukraine. Despite claims of renewable energy use, fossil fuels still dominate. Short-lived mining rigs generate thousands of tonnes of e-waste annually, often dumped without proper recycling. Cooling systems also consume huge amounts of water, competing with agriculture in already dry regions.

In the UAE, the problem recently hit farms. Abu Dhabi authorities banned crypto mining on agricultural land after uncovering illegal setups using subsidised power. Fines of up to Dh100,000 were issued to violators, with officials warning that such operations damage soil, pose fire risks, and threaten food security.

Experts say greener mining is possible, through heat reuse, renewable power, or shifting to Proof-of-Stake systems like Ethereum, which cuts energy use by 99%. But Bitcoin remains resistant to change. As governments tighten oversight, the UAE’s stance is clear: innovation must not come at the cost of the planet.