Highlights;

• Climate Tech Opportunity: A booming market with €10 billion invested in Europe alone (Q4 2023). Blockchain, specifically ICP, can provide solutions for the energy transition and environmental commodities.
• Token Holder Governance: FOOTPRINT token holders would control the project's direction, incentives, and development.
• Global Public Good: IC Footprint tackles climate change, a major challenge for everyone.

For years, the energy consumption of blockchains has raised concerns. Traditional proof-of-work mechanisms require vast amounts of computing power, leading to significant carbon emissions. ICP takes a different approach. It utilises a novel proof-of-stake system that significantly reduces energy consumption compared to proof-of-work models.

This has led to the IC Carbon Footprint initiative, Instead of being a single tool, IC Footprint acts as the underlying framework for the entire Internet Computer Protocol (ICP). It empowers various actors within the network, from supporting decentralised applications (DApps), Service Nervous Systems (SNSs), Utopias, and node operators in measuring, reporting, and reducing their environmental impact. This goes beyond simple monitoring; IC Footprint aims to equip ICP with the key technologies it needs to become a leader in green computing and even foster a dedicated climate tech industry on the network itself.

However, even with this efficiency advantage, ICP recognises the need for continuous improvement to minimise its environmental footprint.

Two years ago, the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) ecosystem adopted NNS Proposal #55487 to establish a carbon footprint and sustainability policy. This move reflects a growing commitment to environmental responsibility. Carbon Crowd, in collaboration with the DFINITY Foundation, has been developing the Internet Computer Footprint project to reduce the IC's carbon footprint. The IC Sustainability Report 2022 provides a comprehensive analysis of the network’s electricity usage and carbon footprint, offering proposals for its decarbonization.

The findings show that while ICP is energy-efficient compared to other blockchains, it still generates a measurable carbon footprint, estimated at around 275 tonnes of CO2 per year. This translates to the energy consumption of roughly 100 average US homes.

Looking Forward: A Roadmap for Decarbonization

ICP is not shying away from this challenge. The report proposes several actionable steps towards a more sustainable future, including:

• Real-time Energy Monitoring: Implementing real-time measurement of energy consumption for each node in the network will provide valuable data for optimisation efforts.
• Decarbonised Subnets: Exploring the creation of subnets powered entirely by renewable energy sources could pave the way for a fully sustainable ICP ecosystem.
• Sustainability Leadership Group: Establishing a dedicated working group within the ICP community will prioritise and oversee decarbonisation initiatives.
• Carbon Offsetting: Offsetting the ICP's existing carbon footprint through verified methods like direct air capture technology can create an immediate positive impact.

Aligning with Africa's Sustainable Future

In recent developments, many African nations are prioritising sustainable climate change goals. IC Footprint's commitment to building a greener cloud computing network aligns perfectly with this vision. By leveraging the ICP with IC Footprint, African developers can contribute to a cleaner future for their continent. This resonates not just with environmentally conscious consumers, but also positions developers well for funding and partnerships that prioritise sustainability.

Empowering African Innovation:

IC Footprint goes beyond simply reducing the IC's environmental impact. It propels an entire climate tech industry on the ICP network.

• Value-Driven Development:

Many African developers are passionate about creating positive change. IC Footprint allows them to develop solutions for a sustainable future without compromising the environment. This fosters a sense of purpose and aligns with their core values.

• Open-Source Advantage:

IC Footprint's open-source platform provides developers with free access to powerful tools and resources. This lowers the barrier to entry for African developers, many of whom may face resource constraints. They can collaborate with a global community, learn from best practices, and build upon existing solutions.

• Unlocking Commercial Opportunities:

The climate tech market is booming, with investments reaching €10 billion in Europe alone (Q4 2023). IC Footprint positions African developers to tap into this vast market. They can create and commercialise innovative climate tech solutions across various platforms, including the web, mobile apps, and even traditional businesses.

• Building a Greener Legacy:

By participating in IC Footprint, African developers can contribute to a cleaner future for their continent and the world. This allows them to build a legacy they can be proud of, attracting talent and fostering a more sustainable tech ecosystem in Africa.

In conclusion, IC Footprint presents a unique opportunity for African developers. It allows them to be environmentally responsible, compete in the global market, and contribute to a more sustainable future

(ICP is launching IC Footprint SNS, a program to make the network eco-friendly. ICP is building an open-source climate tech platform and inviting the community to help shape a sustainable future for blockchain technology.)