New York State Assembly member Anna Kelles, who represents the 125th district, testified before the State Senate Committee on Environmental Conservation on April 27th about the environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining. Kelles, who is a member of the Assembly’s Committee on Environmental Conservation, has been a vocal advocate for protecting the state’s natural resources.
In her testimony, Kelles raised concerns about the amount of energy used by mining operations and the potential harm to the state’s natural resources. She also called for more regulation of the industry to mitigate its environmental impact. Kelles noted that New York State is a major producer of hydroelectric power, which is often used to power cryptocurrency mining operations. However, she also raised concerns about the impact that increased demand for energy could have on the state’s energy grid and natural resources, such as water resources.
Kelles’ testimony comes amid growing concern about the environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining. A study published in the journal Nature Communications estimated that cryptocurrency mining uses more energy than entire countries such as Switzerland and Argentina. In response to these concerns, New York State has proposed legislation that would place a temporary ban on new cryptocurrency mining operations until the environmental impact can be fully assessed.
Following Kelles’ testimony, her Twitter account was hacked, and a series of tweets were posted in support of cryptocurrency mining. Kelles later confirmed that her account was hacked and that the tweets did not reflect her views. She reiterated her concerns about the environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining, saying that the issue needed to be addressed to protect New York’s natural resources.
The hack is being investigated by the New York State Police and the FBI, and Kelles’ staff has also contacted Twitter to try to regain control of her account.
Kelles’ testimony and subsequent hack underscore the need for continued discussion and action on the environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining.
