The Noise of Crypto Mining
Residents of Granbury, Texas, are struggling with the constant noise from a nearby bitcoin mining facility. The hum, described as sounding like a jet engine or Niagara Falls, is disrupting lives and causing health issues. This problem is not unique to Granbury; cryptocurrency mining facilities are popping up across the US, bringing with them noise pollution and other environmental concerns.
Trump’s Support for Crypto Mining
Donald Trump’s administration has been friendly to the crypto industry, with Trump stating that bitcoin should be “mined, minted and made in the USA”. This stance has emboldened crypto mining companies, which are expanding their operations across the country. The CEO of Mara, a major crypto mining company, praised Trump’s administration for delivering on its promises to the industry.
Environmental and Health Concerns
The noise from crypto mining facilities is not just a nuisance; it’s also having serious health impacts on local residents. People are experiencing tinnitus, vertigo, hearing loss, and heart arrhythmia due to the constant noise. The environmental impact is also significant, with crypto mining consuming large amounts of energy and contributing to pollution.
Expansion Plans
Crypto mining companies are planning to expand their operations, with plans to add over 2.42 GW in capacity. This will likely exacerbate the noise and environmental problems. The industry is also tapping into natural gas from oilfields to fuel new facilities, further contributing to pollution.
Local Resistance
Residents are fighting back against the crypto mining industry, with some forming coalitions to protest the noise and environmental damage. Lawsuits have been filed against mining companies, alleging noise-related damage to health, wildlife, and air quality.
Mitigation Efforts
The industry claims that noise can be mitigated with immersion-cooled machines and sound walls. However, critics argue that these measures are not effective in eliminating the noise. In Granbury, a sound wall was constructed, and some machines were replaced with immersion-cooled ones, but the noise persists.
Conclusion
The crypto mining industry’s expansion is threatening the peace and quiet of US towns. As the industry continues to grow, it’s essential to address the environmental and health concerns associated with crypto mining. Residents are demanding action, and local governments must balance the economic benefits of crypto mining with the need to protect their constituents’ quality of life.
“I just want quiet,” said Shenice Copenhaver, a resident of Granbury. The struggle for peace and quiet is becoming a rallying cry for communities affected by crypto mining.
