Texan Activists To Bitcoin Miners: Environmental responsibility is key, so let’s protect Texas’ precious resources – don’t mess with our water and electricity!
In a recent week of action, Greenpeace USA, the Texas Coalition Against Cryptomining, and Navarro County residents joined forces to confront Riot Platforms’ Bitcoin mining operations in Corsicana, Texas. The focus of the week was to shed light on Riot Platform’s plans to launch the world’s largest Bitcoin mining operation, which poses significant environmental risks and further strains Texas’ energy grid.
Jackie Sawicky, Founder of the Texas Coalition Against Cryptomining, expressed concerns about the wastefulness of Bitcoin mining and its impact on the community. Sawicky questioned why Texans should bear the financial burden of a digital casino that few people participate in.
Riot Platforms’ choice of Corsicana as the mining site is influenced by several factors, including its proximity to the Navarro switch, access to strained water sources, lenient regulations, cost-effective electricity, and incentives from the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). Through its participation in Demand Response, Riot can sell its discounted energy back to Texans at a premium during times of high electricity demand, benefiting Riot financially while increasing electricity bills for Texas ratepayers.
Joshua Archer, Greenpeace USA Bitcoin Campaign Lead, expressed solidarity with Texans opposing Riot Platforms’ exploitation of their communities. The week of action aimed to raise awareness about the detrimental impact of Bitcoin mining on electricity grids, water resources, and the global climate.
During the protest, which lasted two hours, multiple residents showed support for the cause. Photos of the week’s events can be found on Greenpeace’s website.
Kimberlee Walter, Founder of Stand Up for Change: Navarro County, emphasized the importance of the week of action in informing residents about the devastating consequences of Riot Platforms’ Bitcoin mining operation.
Local politicians in Navarro County have been uncooperative, refusing requests for an official Town Hall meeting to address activists’ concerns. These concerns include excessive electricity consumption, higher bills for ratepayers, excessive water usage in drought-prone Texas, noise pollution, and increased fossil fuel use.
As part of the week of action, the Texas Coalition Against Cryptomining organized an unofficial Town Hall meeting featuring speakers such as energy fellow Ed Hirs and Adrian Shelley from Public Citizen. The meeting aimed to inform the community about the issues surrounding Bitcoin mining. A recording of the Town Hall is available for those interested.
For a more detailed look into Riot Platforms and their Bitcoin mining operation, Greenpeace USA has published a report on their website.
For further information or inquiries, contact Gujari Singh, Greenpeace USA Senior Communications Specialist.
Greenpeace USA is a member of a global network of independent campaigning organizations focused on addressing environmental issues and promoting sustainable solutions. The organization works towards transforming unjust social, environmental, and economic systems to combat the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and prioritize people’s well-being. To learn more, visit their website.
