Ripple Co-founder\'s Stance on Changing Bitcoin Code: What\'s the Real Story?
The debate surrounding Bitcoin\'s environmental impact continues to spark heated discussions in the cryptocurrency community. One name that frequently surfaces in these discussions is Chris Larsen, co-founder of Ripple. Recent reports and statements have created some confusion, so let\'s clarify Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen\'s position on changing Bitcoin\'s code.
"Change the Code, Not the Climate" Campaign: Larsen\'s Involvement
In 2025, the environmental organization Greenpeace launched the "Change Bitcoin Code" campaign, an initiative focused on pushing Bitcoin to shift away from its energy-intensive Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism. As reported by Bloomberg, Larsen initially supported this initiative, reportedly investing $5 million into the so-called “Change the Code, Not the Climate” campaign.
Greenpeace USA and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) partnered on this "Change the Bitcoin Code" initiative, aiming to pressure industry leaders to adopt more sustainable alternatives. The goal was to reduce Bitcoin\'s carbon footprint by transitioning to a different consensus mechanism. So much so, Ripple\'s former CEO wants to change Bitcoin\'s code.
Clarification: Ripple\'s Official Position
However, there\'s been a crucial clarification. Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen clarified that the company was not behind the funding of the controversial “Change the Code” campaign. While Larsen personally supported the initiative, it\'s important to understand that Ripple, as a company, wasn\'t officially backing the campaign. Chris Larsen clarified that the Change Bitcoin Code campaign launched by the environmental organization Greenpeace in 2025.
Chris Larsen, co-founder of Ripple, has clarified that the company was not behind the funding of the controversial “Change the Code” campaign. The initiative, in partnership with Greenpeace, aimed to promote a shift away from Proof-of-Work.
The Core Issue: Bitcoin\'s Energy Consumption
Regardless of Larsen\'s specific involvement or Ripple\'s official stance, the underlying issue remains: Bitcoin\'s energy consumption. Climate activism group Greenpeace is campaigning to change Bitcoin’s code away from using proof-of-work and mining, pressuring industry leaders to adopt a more sustainable approach.
The debate surrounding Proof-of-Work versus more energy-efficient consensus mechanisms like Proof-of-Stake continues. This conversation is crucial for the long-term sustainability of Bitcoin and the cryptocurrency ecosystem as a whole.