Crypto mining is essential for producing new coins, processing transactions, and strengthening the blockchain ecosystem by verifying and securing it. More miners in the blockchain technology enable a more secure network. Mining requires great computational technology and knowledge to solve the complex mathematical equations that secure the blockchain technology.
Earlier, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoins were mined with normal computers and processors to solve the complicated math problems that created the currencies. Later it was updated by graphic cards used for gaming but they consumed more electricity and produced lots of heat. Chips were reprogrammed to mine Bitcoins that were faster. These chips also hold the problem of power consumption and later Application Specific Integrated Circuit Chips (ASIC) were designed that make mining faster using less power.
Other than power consumption, noise produced while mining is a major issue. All major crypto mining companies have faced complaints about noise production raising a major environmental and societal problem related to crypto mining.
How is noise created while mining?
Large crypto mining centers produce loud noise that can disrupt the surrounding communities. It requires thousands of computers running at a time for 24 hours a day and these computers need fans to cool them down. The noise produced is between 50 to 80 decibels on average. There are three reasons for the high noise produced while mining cryptocurrencies:
- High-powered hardware and its cooling system: Crypto mining requires specially built equipment or mining rigs that can combat complex mathematical problems. Even though a significant amount of power usage was decreased, the ASIC used for Bitcoin mining produces heat and requires an efficient cooling system. It consists of multiple fans running at a time making a buzzing sound.
- Concentration of hardware: To maximize the computational efficiency, the mining rigs would be stacked together. The fans to diverge the heat produced would also be closely put together, overlapping the noises. This overlapping amplifies the overall sound produced.
- Ventilation systems: In addition to the noise created by the fans that cool down the hardware, large mining centers use industrial-scale fans and air conditioning units to keep the temperature under control suitable for the devices, creating additional noise.
What are the impacts of the noise produced while crypto mining?
- Disrupting the peaceful environment: The noise produced continuously by the cooling system at a crypto mining center can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere. The roaring sound continues throughout the day, even at night. This can impact the lives of the people living near the mining center.
- Severe health concerns: Prolonged and repeated exposure to sound above 85 dB can lead to hearing loss. The case of the Bitcoin mining center at Granbury, Texas proved to show health conditions like migraines, vertigo, and heart problems other than hearing loss by the roaring sound of the cooling system. The highest noise produced is recorded to be 91 dB which can cause hearing loss for sure. It can even increase blood pressure and cause some cardiovascular diseases.
- Psychological concern: The continuous noise, irrespective of day or night can disrupt sleep. It can irritate people, reduce focus and concentration, and cause mental disorders and depression.
- Impacting the birds and some animal species: It is reported that over a hundred animal species have been affected by the noise produced by crypto mining centers. The impact of the noise is most prevalent in the behavior of birds. Many species of birds are migrating and some are extinct. This can disrupt the ecosystem of a locality.
How to reduce the impact of noise produced?
- Soundproofing the crypto mining centers: Soundproofing the mining centers with barriers that can stop sound waves from disseminating into nearby areas and reduce sound pollution. Soundproofing panels and insulated walls can absorb a significant amount of noise produced. However, these are costly to be implemented in a vast place.
- Improving the cooling technology: As digital currencies are growing, newer technology should be introduced considering the concerns. Using liquid coolants other than traditional fan-based coolers can reduce the noise produced. Liquid coolers can circulate among mining rigs to reduce the heat produced. This technology is efficient and quieter compared to the cooling fans.
- Using reflective materials: Using materials like concrete and brick to bounce sound waves into various directions to reduce the impact of the sound.
- Choosing structural and geographical solutions: Constructing the mines away from residential areas can reduce the harmful effects on humans. Choosing naturally insulating places like an underground mining center would be a better option to protect animals as well.
Conclusion
As the digital world is evolving, digital currencies have also gained traction in recent years. Mining is crucial to secure the blockchain technology, strengthen transactions as well as produce more coins. Many countries have banned crypto mining considering the social and environmental concerns. However, considering the economic benefits cryptocurrencies provide, improving the technology with better equipment is necessary.