MEDAN PASAR IS UNDERGOING RESTORATION - A thought by Nik Zafri

I’m delighted to see that Medan Pasar is undergoing restoration works. Kudos to Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur, International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Malaysia, Juteras Vision Sdn Bhd, and all parties involved, not just for Medan Pasar but also for their efforts in preserving other historical sites across Kuala Lumpur. These initiatives are part of the KL Heritage Agenda and align with KLCP 2020/KLDSP2040.

Here’s my perspective on how restoration works are typically carried out on heritage buildings. While the processes may vary, this is a general overview for public awareness.

KERETAPI TANAH MELAYU BERHAD (KTMB) NEED TO BE REVITALIZED AS IT IS OUR NATIONAL TREASURE - Insights by Nik Zafri

Source : The Edge Malaysia

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM Berhad (KTMB) is the main railway operator in Peninsular Malaysia (West Malaysia).  KTMB’s history dates back to the British colonial era since 1885 when railway lines were constructed to transport tin ore from mines to ports.

KTMB was known as the Federated Malay States Railway (Keretapi Negeri-Negeri Melayu Bersekutu) and later the Malayan Railways Administration (Pentadbiran Keretapi Tanah Melayu). It was officially named Keretapi Tanah Melayu in 1962. In 1992, KTMB was corporatized, although it remains fully owned by the Malaysian government.

KTMB serves over 100 stations across 10 states in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore, operating on a rail network spanning 1,677 km. All KTMB tracks use metre gauge (1,000 mm), with approximately 700 km of these tracks electrified. In the fiscal year 2018, KTMB carried 39.5 million passengers and 5.7 million tonnes of cargo. (Source : Wikipedia)

As one of the oldest rail services in the region, its contributions to the nation's economy, connectivity, and industrial growth cannot be overstated.

As any other corporate entity, KTMB has had some share in problems such as  Financial struggles, Train service disruptions, Station issues and Delays.

However, KTMB with the help of the government has taken steps to address these issues, including - acquiring new train sets, preventive maintenance and has expanded and diversified its services.

LATEST EFFORTS BY THE MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT

The Malaysian Government has implemented several initiatives to support and enhance the operations of Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB).  These include: 

1. Acquisition of New Train Sets through Leasing Agreements

In August 2024, the government announced plans to acquire 62 new passenger train sets for KTMB via a leasing agreement with China. This initiative, valued at approximately RM10.7 billion, is structured over a 30-year lease period and aims to improve the quality and reliability of KTMB's services. The leasing costs encompass maintenance, repair, and operational services, ensuring sustained performance throughout the lease duration.  (Source : BERNAMA)

2. Financial Assistance and Subsidies

The government has provided substantial financial support to KTMB to fulfill its social obligations, particularly in offering affordable fares to the B40 income group. This includes subsidies to maintain low ticket prices, reflecting the government's commitment to public transportation as a social responsibility.  (Source : Ministry of Transport)

3. Infrastructure Upgrades and Modernization

Significant investments have been made to upgrade KTMB's infrastructure. Some of notable ones are :  

• Electrification and Double Tracking Projects - Projects like the Rawang-Ipoh double tracking and electrification have been completed, enabling trains to operate at higher speeds and improving service efficiency. 

• Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrification and Double Tracking - This ongoing project aims to enhance connectivity and reduce travel times between Gemas and Johor Bahru. Although initially expected to be completed by mid-2023, the project has been delayed to mid-2025.

 4. Collaboration with Railway Assets Corporation (RAC)

Discussions have been held regarding a potential merger between KTMB and RAC to streamline operations and improve financial sustainability. While a full merger has not been finalized, the government continues to explore ways to enhance coordination between the two entities.  (Source : The Malaysian Reserve)

5. Implementation of Green Initiatives 

The government, through RAC, has supported green initiatives by installing solar panels at various railway stations. This move aligns with national policies to promote renewable energy and reduce the carbon footprint of public transportation. 

These efforts underscore the government's commitment to revitalizing KTMB, ensuring it remains a vital component of Malaysia's public transportation network. 

HOW DO I FEEL ABOUT IT?

I feel personally being a user of KTM services for decades, there are more steps can be taken to help revitalize KTMB which require a more multifaceted strategy focusing on operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, financial sustainability, and technological advancements. 

The following can be additional points to the revitalization plan. 

1. Improve Operational Efficiency

1.1   Optimize Schedules

Analyze demand and adjust train frequencies to minimize empty runs while maximizing usage during peak hours.

1.2 Modernize Rolling Stock

• Invest more in energy-efficient, comfortable, and high-capacity trains to enhance reliability and reduce maintenance costs.

• Streamline Maintenance - Implement predictive maintenance using #IoT sensors to prevent breakdowns and reduce downtime. 

2. Additional Infrastructure Upgrade

2.1 Enhance Rail Tracks

Upgrade tracks for high-speed trains and improve connections to industrial hubs.

2.2 Smart Stations

More modernization of train stations with digital ticketing kiosks, real-time arrival displays, and better passenger amenities. 

2.3 Electrification 

Transition to fully electric trains where feasible to reduce fuel costs and environmental impact.

3. Financial and Policy Reforms

3.1 More Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)

Engage private sector players in funding infrastructure upgrades and service improvements.

3.2 Diversify Revenue Streams

Leverage KTMB-owned land for more commercial development, such as more malls, more offices, and more residential projects.

3.3 Subsidy and Funding

Work more with Malaysian government to secure subsidies for loss-making routes vital for rural connectivity. 

4. Enhance Customer Experience

4.1 Digital Transformation

KTM already have an app to book all the train tickets online including train, ETS, Intercity and North Komuter between Kuala Lumpur right up to Padang Besar and other destinations within their operation in Malaysia.  Unfortunately, there are still so much improvements can be made to the system based on the comments made by customers on the apps. These comments should be taken seriously, they should be gathered and implement a more effective customer feedback mechanism to address the pain points.

4.2 Safety and Cleanliness

There have been good comments by both locals and foreign tourist on this matter. KTM should maintain this branding of implementing a high standard of safety and cleanliness on trains and at stations.

5. Intercity Connectivity

The routes should be expanded to underserved regions, ensuring better national integration.

6. Freight Services 

Optimize freight services to capitalize on the rising demand for cargo transport, especially for e-commerce. 

7. Tourism Initiatives 

Partner with more tourism boards to offer scenic train routes and travel packages. At the moment Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) and Tourism Malaysia have established a robust partnership to promote rail tourism, enhancing Malaysia's appeal as a travel destination. Key collaborative initiatives include: 

7.1 "Railway to See Malaysia" Campaign" (Launched May, 2024) - which has helped in increasing passenger numbers ever since. 

7.2 Excursion Trains, Promising Perak Edition (Launched September 2024) - which has encouraged domestic and international tourists to explore Perak by train. The initiative will enhance local economic income through effective promotions and attractive packages.

Apart from that Tourism Perak, in collaboration with KTMB, launched rail tourism packages as alternative modes to attract tourists to explore Perak by train. The selection of Taiping as the launch location is significant due to the presence of Malaysia's first railway track, enhancing the historical appeal of these packages. 

7.3 Heritage Steam Locomotive Tours – Partnered with with Great Leisure Heritage Rail Sdn Bhd (GLHR), the program is to introduce the Tourism Heritage Steam Locomotive Train. Set to commence operations in January 2025, this service offers a nostalgic 380-kilometer journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth, aiming to attract tourists interested in historical and cultural experiences.  (Source : The Star)

7.4 International Tourism Collaborations

In October 2017, Tourism Malaysia and KTMB launched rail packages targeting Southern Thailand. This initiative aimed to promote KTMB packages by travel agents in Southern Thailand and foster closer tourism ties between Thailand and Malaysia, commemorating the 60th anniversary of Thai-Malaysian diplomatic relations. 

These collaborative efforts between KTMB and Tourism Malaysia underscore a shared commitment to leveraging rail services as a unique and sustainable means of exploring Malaysia's rich cultural and natural heritage. 

8. Sustainability Practices 

The government, through RAC, has supported green initiatives by installing solar panels at various railway stations.

These practices can be further enhanced by adopting renewable energy sources for operations and use sustainable materials in train construction and explore selling carbon credits as a revenue stream. 

9. Foster a Skilled Workforce 

9.1 Training and Development 

Upskill employees to manage advanced technologies and deliver better customer service. 

9.2 Cultural Shift 

Promote a performance-oriented and customer-centric organizational culture.

10. Collaborate with Regional Partners

10.1 ASEAN Integration 

Collaborate with neighboring rail operators for cross-border connectivity, fostering trade and tourism within the ASEAN region. 

10.2 Knowledge Sharing 

Learn best practices from successful rail operators globally.

11. Long-Term Vision 

11.1 High-Speed Rail (HSR)

Revisit plans for high-speed rail projects that link major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. 

11.2 Smart Rail Network 

Integrate AI and big data analytics for optimizing routes, scheduling, and passenger management.

12. Conclusion

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM Berhad (KTMB) is more than just a transportation provider, it’s a national heritage with a legacy deeply interwoven into Malaysia’s history and development. KTMB should be preserved in terms of its legacy for future generations while embracing modernity.

This isn't just about bailing out a struggling company, it’s about ensuring the continued relevance of a national treasure that has already given so much. Such assistance is an investment in Malaysia's future, honoring KTMB's historical contributions.

I firmly believe that KTMB can transform into a sustainable and competitive rail operator that supports Malaysia’s economic growth and urban mobility needs

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS - WHAT ARE THE WRONG QUESTIONS THAT HR SHOULDN'T BE ASKING

When the HR or anybody for that matter asking the "wrong" questions - typically, they are straying into topics that are irrelevant, inappropriate, or even illegal, depending on the jurisdiction.

Here are examples of wrong or inappropriate HR questions:

1. Discriminatory Questions

Asking about age, race, gender, religion, marital status, or sexual orientation when these are not relevant to the job.

Example: "Do you plan on having children soon?"

Why it's wrong: It could lead to discrimination and violates equal opportunity laws.

2. Medical or Health-Related Questions

Asking about a candidate's health, disabilities, or medical history unless it directly relates to their ability to perform essential job functions.

Example: "Do you have any chronic illnesses?"

Why it's wrong: Violates privacy rights and disability discrimination laws.

3. Personal Financial Questions

Inquiring about a candidate's debt, bank balance, or financial struggles unless required by the role (e.g., financial positions requiring credit checks).

Example: "Do you have trouble paying your bills?"

Why it's wrong: It's invasive and not relevant to job performance.

4. Illegal or Unethical Questions

Asking about political affiliations, union memberships, or past legal issues without justification.

Example: "Who did you vote for in the last election?"

Why it's wrong: It breaches personal freedom and is irrelevant to job qualifications.

5. Overly Personal or Irrelevant Questions

Delving into a candidate's private life without relevance to the job.

Example: "What does your spouse do for work?"

Why it's wrong: It can come off as intrusive and unrelated to the candidate’s professional capabilities.

6. Leading or Tricky Questions

Attempting to corner candidates into revealing unnecessary or inappropriate information.

Example: "How would you handle taking time off for family emergencies?"

Why it's wrong: It assumes the candidate has specific obligations and indirectly pressures them to disclose personal circumstances.

7. Questions that Violate Local Labor Laws

Asking about issues like expected salary history in jurisdictions where it's illegal to inquire about past salaries.

Example: "What was your last drawn salary?"

Why it's wrong: It perpetuates wage inequality and may breach local regulations.

ADAKAH SYEIKH WAN DAUD FATHANI (MEKAH) MEMPUNYAI KETURUNAN - ANALISA DARI NIK ZAFRI

Petikan dari artikel saya bagi menafikan pendapat atau pengakuan kepada yang bukan nasab kepada Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani (Thaif) - Al-Fatihah

Assalaamuálaikum wbr.

(Saya mengizinkan sesiapa sahaja untuk berkongsi tulisan ini (copy & paste) cuma letakkan kredit nama saya untuk memudahkan penjelasan)

ADAKAH SYEIKH WAN DAUD FATHANI (MEKAH) MEMPUNYAI KETURUNAN

Saya ingin memohon maaf sekiranya posting ini agak panjang sedikit. Dulu, saya ada mendengar khabar, pihak membuat dakwaan bahawa mereka adalah keturunan Almarhum Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani yang dimaqamkan di Taif dalam Wilayah Mekah. Tidak perlulah saya bincangkan biografi Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani kerana banyak sumbernya di Google.

Saya mempunyai kaitan dengan keturunan yang sama menerusi kedua belah ibu (2 jalur - LImbat) dan bapa saya (1 jalur Besut).

Tidaklah niat saya untuk berbangga atau riak kerana ilmu/akhlak saya masih jauh jika nak dibandingkan dengan tokoh ulama yang terkenal ini.

Saya juga tidak meletakkan foto Syeikh Wan Daud dan foto maqamnya di Taif atas sebab-sebab peribadi. Tetapi bagi sesiapa yang mengerjakan umrah/haji, ziarah ke maqam Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani adalah salah satu lokasi penting.

Hal yang sama pernah saya bincangkan dengan Allahyarham Ustaz Wan Saghir, salah seorang cucunda kepada Syeikh Wan Ahmad Fathani. Keluarga Syeikh Wan Daud juga berkaitan Almarhum Tuan Guru Hj. Wan Latif, Terengganu (kebanyakan ahli keluarga saya dari jalur Tuan Guru Hj Wan Latif amat rapat dengan keluarga saya)

Setelah saya teliti, saya dapati mungkin ada yang tertukar dengan 2 orang lagi ulama iaitu Tuan Guru Haji Daud Bukit Abal (Thoriqat Ahmadiyyah) dan Syeikh Wan Daud KHATIB Al-Fathoni. Tetapi timeline kedua ulama ini adalah amat besar jurangnya dengan Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani. Saya husnul zhan mungkin mereka tidak sengaja menghubungkan nama mereka kepada Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani.

Saya pernah membuat satu penafian am suatu masa dahulu tanpa menyebut nama ulama berkenaan dan nama mereka yang mendakwa bagi tidak mengaibkan sesiapa.

Malah ada dakwaan bahawa keluarga/kerabat ini bukan keturunan Bugis atau berkaitan dengan Johor, Tun Tija (Wan Tija) binti Datuk Laksmana Kota Tinggi - telah berkahwin dengan Andi/Andik Ali/Faqih Ali)

Datuk Perdana Menteri Nik Mahmud Paduka Raja Kelantan* pernah menulis:

“Syahdan dan pada suatu masa bulan sedang mengambang di tepi langit, tersebutlah cerita anak raja Bugis lari daripada saudaranya menumpang sebuah bahtera sampai ke Johor dan tumpang duduk berkirim diri rumah Laksamana Kota Tinggi, dipanggil Andik Ali.

“Tatkala Laksamana memandang kepadanya berasalah kasihan belas dan dipeliharanya sebagai anak angkatnya sendiri. Tidak berapa tahun kemudian diperjodohkan dengan anaknya Wan Tija. Tidak berapa lama selepas itu Andik Ali serta dengan isterinya pun beredar ke Patani menumpang di rumah Mekong Damit Kampung Bira pada tahun 1049 H. Maka kerana lemah lembut tingkah lakunya dan berpelajaran orang di Patani memanggilnya Faqih Ali. Di situ ia beristeri kepada Ce' Dewi anak Sri Biji Diraja. Baginda sampai di Patani kira-kira tahun 1637 M”

*Datuk Perdana Nik Mahmud anak kepada Nik Ismail - jalurnya menerusi Wan Abdul Rahman (adik beradik dengan Tok Kaya Rakna Wan Yusuf) iaitu anak kepada Faqih Ali"

Ringkasnya Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani dari jalur ibu dan bapanya adalah keturunan Mujaddid Syed Hussein Jamadil Qubra yang menjadi punca utama kepada keturunan Kesultanan Kelantan (termasuk Long Gaffar) menerusi perkahwinannya dengan Puteri Linang Cahaya binti Raden Mas Arya/Sultan Baki Shah Kerajaan Chermin.

Dari jalur ibunya - Syeikh Daud Fathani adalah salah seorang cicit Tok Kaya Ratna menerusi jalur ibunya.

Wan Fatimah
|
Wan Salamah
|
Tok Banda Wan Su
|
Tok Kaya Rakna Diraja Wan Yusuf
|
Andi/Andik (Faqih) Ali Datok Maharajalela
|
Mustafa Datu Jambu (Sultan Abdul Hamid Syah)
|
Sultan Muzaffar Waliullah bin Sultan Abu Abdullah Umdatuddin)

Sepanjang yang saya tahu - Syeikh Wan Daud Fathani TIDAK pernah berkahwin dan TIDAK pernah ada zuriat kecuali dari punca adik beradiknya. Elakkan bernasab kepada bukan nasab kita kerana perkara ini dilarang.

Saya harap selepas ini, perkara ini agak jelas dan tiada lagi sebarang dakwaan dilakukan. Selebihnya bolehlah ditanyakan kepada mana-mana ahli keluarga Tuan Guru Haji Wan Latiff kerana amanat menjaga silsilah ini juga menjadi tanggungjawab keluarga kami.

Al-Fatihah : Syeikh Wan Daud Al-Fathani

BLOCKCHAIN AND CLIMATE CHANGE - OVERVIEW BY NIK ZAFRI

Best Viewed by reading  LinkedIn Version

Blockchain technology, often associated with cryptocurrencies, is emerging as a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. By providing transparent, secure, and decentralized solutions, blockchain has the potential to enhance environmental monitoring, improve the efficiency of carbon markets, and promote sustainable practices. However, this technology also faces challenges due to its own environmental impact, particularly in terms of energy consumption. As the world seeks innovative ways to tackle climate change, blockchain is at a pivotal point, balancing its promise for climate action with the need to reduce its carbon footprint.

1.0 WHAT BLOCKCHAIN OFFERS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE

1.1 Transparency and Traceability in Supply Chain Tracking

Blockchain can enhance transparency in supply chains, ensuring products are sourced sustainably. This allows companies to trace the origins of materials and certify that they comply with environmental standards.

Example 1: IBM Food Trust uses blockchain to track the journey of food products from farm to table. It allows consumers and companies to verify that agricultural products are grown and sourced sustainably. For example, retailers can trace if coffee beans are ethically harvested and organic-certified, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Source : Food Logistic Dot Com

 - Example 2: Everledger uses blockchain to track diamonds, ensuring they are conflict-free and ethically sourced. This principle can be applied to minerals like cobalt, crucial for batteries, to ensure they are mined responsibly.

1.2 Carbon Footprint Tracking

tracking of carbon footprints across entire supply chains, helping companies reduce their emissions. It can verify carbon credits and offsets, preventing fraud in carbon markets by providing clear proof of transactions.

Example 1: ClimateTrade is a blockchain platform that allows companies to offset their carbon emissions by buying verified carbon credits. It provides transparency, showing exactly how funds are used for environmental projects like reforestation or renewable energy.

Example 2: CarbonX tracks carbon reductions across a supply chain and allows companies to earn tradeable tokens for their carbon savings, ensuring carbon credits are accurately accounted for.

1.3 Decentralized Energy Grids - Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading

Blockchain supports the creation of decentralized energy markets, where individuals can buy and sell renewable energy directly, such as solar power from their solar panels.

Example 1: Power Ledger, an Australian company, enables households with solar panels to trade excess electricity with their neighbors using blockchain technology. This creates a local energy marketplace without relying on a central utility.

Example 2: Brooklyn Microgrid  uses blockchain to allow residents in Brooklyn, New York, to buy and sell locally produced solar energy within their neighborhood, fostering renewable energy use.

1.4 Grid Efficiency

It can improve the efficiency and management of decentralized grids by recording energy generation and consumption data in a secure and transparent manner.

Example 1: Grid+ is a blockchain-based project that improves grid efficiency by optimizing energy distribution based on real-time data. The system manages energy flows and consumption, reducing waste and lowering costs for consumers.

Example 2: #WePower uses blockchain to record energy production and consumption data for renewable energy producers. This helps utility companies forecast demand accurately and integrate more renewable energy into the grid efficiently.

1.5 Incentive Systems for Sustainability - Green Financing

Blockchain can facilitate green finance by enabling tokenization of carbon credits and green bonds, making it easier to invest in sustainable projects.

Example: Moss.Earth is a blockchain-based company that tokenizes carbon credits, allowing individuals and businesses to invest in Amazon rainforest preservation. The funds are directly traceable, supporting conservation projects.

Example: Energy Web Foundation tokenizes energy attributes like carbon credits and renewable energy certificates, making it easier for companies to invest in renewable projects through blockchain-certified tokens.

1.6 Reward Programs

Platforms can use blockchain to incentivize eco-friendly behaviors, such as recycling or using public transportation, by rewarding users with tokens.

Example 1: RecycleToCoin uses blockchain to reward people with tokens when they recycle plastic, glass, and other materials at designated recycling centers. These tokens can be redeemed for cash or used for other purposes, encouraging recycling habits.

Example 2: Ecocoin rewards individuals for eco-friendly behaviors like biking instead of driving or buying sustainable products. Participants earn Ecocoins that can be exchanged for discounts or eco-friendly products, motivating sustainable choices.

2. BLOCKCHAIN'S NEGATIVE IMPACTS ON CLIMATE CHANGE

2.1 Energy Consumption - Proof-of-Work (PoW) Mining

Traditional blockchain systems like Bitcoin use PoW, which requires significant computational power. This consumes large amounts of electricity, contributing to carbon emissions if the energy source is non-renewable. 

Bitcoin, the most well-known cryptocurrency, uses a Proof-of-Work consensus mechanism requiring miners to solve complex mathematical problems. This process consumes enormous amounts of electricity. In 2023, the annual energy consumption of the Bitcoin network was estimated to be around 140 terawatt-hours (TWh), roughly equivalent to the electricity usage of a country like Argentina.

Another example is Ethereum during the pre-merge phase

Before transitioning to Proof-of-Stake (PoS) in 2022, the Ethereum network operated on a PoW system, consuming roughly 112 TWh annually, similar to the annual energy consumption of the Netherlands. This raised significant environmental concerns, pushing Ethereum to switch to a more energy-efficient model.

2.2 Global Carbon Footprint

The energy demand of major blockchain networks has raised concerns about their contribution to climate change, especially if operations rely on fossil fuels.

Before China’s crackdown on cryptocurrency mining in 2021, about 65% of Bitcoin’s global mining took place in China. Much of this mining was powered by coal-fired plants, contributing substantially to global carbon emissions. Estimates suggested that Bitcoin mining in China alone could generate 130 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions by 2024.

After China's ban, Kazakhstan became a popular destination for Bitcoin miners due to cheap electricity, much of which comes from coal-fired power plants. In 2022, Bitcoin mining accounted for 8% of Kazakhstan’s total electricity consumption, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions in a country heavily reliant on fossil fuels.

2.3 Electronic Waste - Mining Hardware

The rapid obsolescence of specialized mining hardware (like ASICs) generates electronic waste, posing additional environmental challenges. Proper recycling and disposal are often lacking.

Example 1: ASIC Miner Obsolescence

Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) are specialized hardware used for mining cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Due to rapid advancements, newer, more efficient ASIC models frequently replace older ones. A study in 2021 estimated that Bitcoin mining generated around 30,700 tons of electronic waste annually, equivalent to the amount of small IT and telecommunication equipment discarded by the Netherlands.

Example 2: Graphics Processing Units (GPUs): For cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (prior to its switch to PoS), miners used GPUs. High demand for newer and more powerful GPUs has led to massive turnover and obsolescence, contributing to e-waste. In 2018, a significant price hike in GPUs occurred due to mining demand, with older models often discarded as newer versions emerged, adding to the growing electronic waste problem.

3.0 POSSIBLE EMERGING SOLUTIONS TO MINIMIZE BLOCKCHAIN'S CARBON FOOTPRINT

3.1 Transition to Energy-Efficient Consensus Algorithms - Proof-of-Stake (PoS)

Newer blockchains like #Ethereum 2.0 use PoS, which drastically reduces energy consumption compared to PoW. This shift aims to maintain blockchain's benefits while minimizing its environmental impact.

In September 2022, Ethereum transitioned from a Proof-of-Work (PoW) system to Proof-of-Stake (PoS) through "The Merge." This move reduced the network's energy consumption by over 99.9%, since validators no longer require energy-intensive mining equipment, relying instead on staked coins to secure the network.

Another example would be Cardano uses a PoS system called Ouroboros, designed to be environmentally friendly and scalable. It relies on staked ADA tokens for network security, significantly lowering its energy consumption compared to PoW blockchains.

3.2 Hybrid Models

Some blockchains use a combination of PoW and PoS or other efficient algorithms to balance security and sustainability.

Example 1: Hedera Hashgraph - Uses a consensus algorithm known as Hashgraph, which combines elements of PoW and PoS-like mechanisms to provide high efficiency. It operates on a network of "Governing Council" nodes that validate transactions, aiming to be secure and scalable while minimizing energy use.

Example 2 - Decred: This blockchain employs a hybrid consensus model that incorporates both PoW and PoS. PoW miners secure the initial layer of transactions, while PoS stakeholders provide an additional layer of verification, balancing security and reducing energy usage compared to purely PoW systems.

 

3.3 Green Mining Initiatives - Renewable Energy Mining

Some blockchain projects are committing to using 100% renewable energy for mining, such as solar or hydroelectric power, reducing their environmental impact.

Example 1: Soluna Holdings - This company operates renewable energy-powered data centers for Bitcoin mining. They use wind and solar power in remote regions where excess renewable energy is available, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels for mining operations.

Example 2: Genesis Mining - One of the largest cloud mining companies, Genesis Mining operates facilities in Iceland, using 100% renewable energy from geothermal and hydroelectric sources for cryptocurrency mining. This significantly reduces the environmental impact of its operations.

3.4 Carbon Offsetting

Initiatives are in place for blockchain platforms to offset their carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy projects or purchasing carbon credits.

Example 1: Algorand - The Algorand blockchain has committed to becoming a carbon-negative blockchain by partnering with #ClimateTrade to purchase carbon offsets. This initiative offsets the small carbon footprint Algorand has, primarily through tree-planting projects and renewable energy investments.

Example 2 Chia Network - Chia, which uses a "Proof-of-Space-and-Time" consensus algorithm, aims to be environmentally friendly. In addition to using less energy-intensive mining, it has pledged to offset any remaining carbon footprint by purchasing carbon credits and investing in sustainability projects.

Emerging solutions to reduce blockchain’s environmental impact focus on more efficient consensus algorithms like PoS, hybrid models that balance security with sustainability, green mining initiatives using renewable energy, and carbon offset programs. These strategies help make blockchain technology more eco-friendly while retaining its core functionalities. 

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND GOVERNANCE

4.1 Data Integrity for Climate Research

Blockchain can ensure the integrity and reliability of environmental data, which is crucial for research and policy-making. Immutable records can help scientists track and verify climate change data.

Example 1: Climate Ledger Initiative - This initiative leverages blockchain to track climate data and enhance transparency for environmental reporting. By storing climate data on a blockchain, it provides a secure and tamper-proof record, allowing researchers and policymakers to access reliable data for climate change assessments. This helps prevent data manipulation, which is crucial for informed policy decisions.

Example 2: IBM's Environmental Intelligence Suite - IBM uses blockchain technology to collect, track, and verify environmental data, such as air quality, temperature, and emissions. The immutable records allow researchers to validate the accuracy of climate data over time, ensuring that environmental studies and reports are based on dependable information.

4.2 Smart Contracts for Environmental Agreements

Blockchain can enforce international climate agreements through smart contracts that automatically execute conditions when pre-defined criteria are met, such as emission targets.

Example 1: UN Climate Chain Coalition (Website : Inatba as an example) - This coalition explores using blockchain and smart contracts to enforce and monitor international climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement. Smart contracts could automatically track emission reductions and verify compliance with targets, facilitating greater accountability among participating nations.

Example 2: Climate DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) (Website : KlimaDAO Japan as an example) - This DAO is designed to use blockchain-based smart contracts to manage funding for climate initiatives. It can automatically allocate resources and track the performance of environmental projects. If a project meets predefined environmental impact criteria (like a specific reduction in emissions), funds are released to continue the project, ensuring that resources are spent effectively.

Blockchain’s role in environmental monitoring and governance centers on providing accurate, immutable data for climate research and leveraging smart contracts to enforce environmental agreements. These solutions enhance accountability, ensure compliance with climate targets, and facilitate data-driven decision-making, making blockchain a valuable tool for addressing global climate challenges.

5.0 IMPACT ON COST AND FINANCE

5.1 Reduced Transaction Costs in Carbon Markets

Example 1: Traditional carbon credit trading often involves intermediaries, leading to high transaction fees. Platforms like ClimateTrade reduce these costs by using blockchain to facilitate direct transactions between buyers and sellers, ensuring that more funds go towards environmental projects rather than intermediaries.

Example 2: Veridium is a blockchain-based platform that eliminates the need for brokers in carbon credit trading, lowering fees and making carbon offsetting more affordable for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprints.

5.2 Lowering Costs in Renewable Energy Projects

Example 1 : By using blockchain for smart contracts, renewable energy projects like those managed by #WePower can reduce legal and administrative costs. Smart contracts automatically enforce terms of agreements without third parties, making financing and investments cheaper and faster.

Example 2: Sun Exchange, a blockchain-based solar energy platform, allows people to invest in solar panel installations globally with small amounts of capital. This reduces the financial burden on communities seeking renewable energy solutions by allowing micro-investments and reducing overhead costs.

5.3 Financing for Small-Scale Green Projects

Example 1: Blockchain platforms like Energy Web Foundation provide tokenized financing options, allowing smaller green projects to access capital through decentralized funding. This approach cuts down the costs associated with traditional fundraising, such as bank fees or venture capital.

Example 2: SolarCoin - a blockchain-based cryptocurrency, rewards solar energy producers with tokens, providing them with additional financial support for green projects. This reduces dependency on traditional financial institutions, cutting costs for small-scale renewable energy initiatives.

5.4 Crowdfunding Sustainable Initiatives

Example 1: Blockchain platforms such as #DAOstack allow environmental projects to crowdfund through decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). This makes raising funds for sustainability projects cheaper by reducing reliance on traditional financial institutions and high administrative fees.

Example 2: Kickstarter-like blockchain platforms (e.g., #KickICO ) enable projects to launch Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) specifically for green and sustainable initiatives. This reduces the complexity and costs of conventional IPOs, allowing smaller climate projects to access global funding.

5.5 Efficient Management of Green Bonds

Example 1 - Blockchain-based green bonds, like those issued by BBVA, use blockchain for all processes related to bond issuance, settlement, and management. This cuts down administrative and auditing costs, making green financing more cost-effective for both investors and issuers.

Example 2: The World Bank’s Blockchain Bond, known as "bond-i," was the first global blockchain-based bond. It demonstrated how blockchain could automate interest payments and settlement processes, drastically reducing costs related to bond issuance and increasing transparency.

5.6 Operational Cost Savings through Smart Contracts

• Example 1: Smart contracts on platforms like #Ethereum can automate payments in energy trading, reducing overhead costs for managing energy sales. For instance, solar farms can use smart contracts to automatically trigger payments for energy delivered, lowering administrative costs.

• Example 2: Grid Singularity, a blockchain-based energy market, uses smart contracts to match buyers and sellers of renewable energy instantly. This reduces the need for brokers and minimizes transaction costs for energy producers and consumers.

Blockchain technology can significantly reduce costs associated with green finance, carbon trading, renewable energy projects, and sustainable initiatives. By eliminating intermediaries, automating transactions with smart contracts, and providing decentralized access to funding, blockchain can make sustainability efforts more financially viable and accessible to a broader audience.

6.0 CONCLUSION

While blockchain technology has potential to drive transparency and accountability in climate action, its traditional forms can negatively impact the environment through high energy consumption and electronic waste. However, newer, more sustainable blockchain technologies and green initiatives are emerging to address these challenges, making blockchain a valuable tool in the fight against climate change.