Introduction to Crypto Mining
The world of cryptocurrency has experienced its justifiable share of ups and downs, but in a small town in North Carolina, the industry’s presence continues to be strongly felt. Murphy, a town nestled within the Blue Ridge mountains, is home to a crypto mine that has turn into a source of frustration for its residents. The mine, full of rows of computers and loud fans, runs almost constantly all year long, producing a ceaseless sound that has turn into a nuisance for the community.
The Noise Pollution
The noise level from the mine is important, reaching as high as 85 decibels on some days. While 55 decibels, the lower end of the range, is comparable to the common noise level in a residential area, the constant din continues to be an issue for residents. The town’s otherwise peaceful atmosphere, just 90 minutes away from an authorized "quiet community," makes the noise from the mine much more jarring. As one resident, Judy Stines, put it, "I do not really care what folks spend money on. I do care about this noise that affects us each day, all day, all night. It’s never-ending."
Residential Resistance
The mine’s owners, PrimeBlock, likely selected Murphy for its low cost electricity and lack of noise regulations. However, the corporate’s presence has not gone unchallenged. Residents have resisted the mine, with one individual taking matters into their very own hands and causing an influence outage at a close-by crypto mine. The community has also come together to demand motion from local leaders, convincing the Board of Commissioners to call for laws regulating crypto mining operations.
A Lack of Consideration
The crypto mine’s most egregious display of disregard for the community occurred during a severe storm that left thousands and thousands without power. While residents were left at midnight, the mine continued to operate, its owners seemingly unconcerned in regards to the impact on the community. As Ron Wright, a neighborhood resident, recounted, "They shut us down on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day every hour for anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes to an hour… But lower than one mile away is crypto, allowed to run on the low end. As soon as the ability got here back, boom! They’re cranking before we’re."
Conclusion
The story of Murphy’s crypto mine serves as a cautionary tale in regards to the importance of considering the impact of commercial operations on local communities. While the mine could also be a income for its owners, its presence has come at a big cost to the town’s residents. As the world of cryptocurrency continues to evolve, it is crucial to prioritize responsible and sustainable practices that balance economic interests with the needs and well-being of local communities. By doing so, we will create a more equitable and just environment for everybody involved.
