Bitcoin mining requires high-powered computer processors in order to solve advanced

Bitcoin mining requires high-powered computer processors in order to solve advanced mathematical equations. This process helps maintain the cryptocurrency's digital ledger, known as the blockchain. When these math problems are solved, Bitcoin miners receive the cryptocurrency in exchange. The more computing power one has, the more equations that can be solved and the more Bitcoin they earn. The process is so intense that individuals really can't earn Bitcoin based on the computer power already accessible to them. Many miners purchase thousands upon thousands of dollars worth of equipment to mine Bitcoin and even then, only these multi-million dollar operations can really mine enough Bitcoin to make the process profitable at this point. Bitcoin miners are predicted to use around 130 Terawatt-hours of energy (TWh), according to The University of Cambridge’s bitcoin electricity consumption index. As TechCrunch points out, Bitcoin's carbon dioxide emissions are roughly the same as a country like Jordan, with a population of 10 million people. For the cherry on top, taxpayers are funding Stronghold Digital Mining's Bitcoin power plant profits. According to Bloomberg, Pennsylvania provides tax credits for burning coal waste.