Real Cost of Bitcoin: Fossil Fuel Use Equivalent to 3.5 Million Cars, Says Report
Is Bitcoin's environmental impact reaching a tipping point? A new report highlights the alarming rate at which the U.S. bitcoin industry's carbon footprint is growing. On 27 de sept. de 2025, LOS ANGELES (Thomson Reuters Foundation) reported a concerning trend: The carbon footprint of the U.S. bitcoin industry is rising at breakneck speed, a report from environmental groups revealed.
The report emphasizes that the additional power use across the country also causes as much carbon pollution as adding 3.5 million gas-powered cars to America’s roads, according to an analysis by WattTime, a leading energy data company. This figure has sparked debate and raised serious questions about the sustainability of Bitcoin mining operations, especially as it has been revealed that miners obtain 85% of their energy from fossil fuels.
The environmental consequences are substantial. Pollution stemming from the added energy demand of Bitcoin mines is about as much as the annual emissions from 3.5 million new gas-guzzling cars, the Times reports. That means Bitcoin mining activities are now responsible for emissions equivalent to 3.5 million cars racing down the highway.
Adding further fuel to the fire, some reports indicate the carbon footprint of the U.S. bitcoin industry is now rivaling the emissions of 6 million cars each year. In 2025 investors traders cryptocurrency businesses and miners faced several challenges. The bear market persisted for an extended period and was further complicated by increasing scrutiny of Bitcoin's energy consumption and its reliance on fossil fuels.
This growing concern highlights the urgent need for more sustainable Bitcoin mining practices and greater transparency regarding energy sources. Is the future of Bitcoin dependent on a shift towards renewable energy?