Impact of Proof of Work (PoW)-Based Blockchain Applications on the Environment: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda

Blockchain technology is being looked at to solve numerous real-world problems that demand transparency by meeting sustainable goals. Do we ponder whether this a boon or bane for the environment? This paper analyses blockchain’s dominant consensus method, Proof-of-Work (PoW), which consumes more energy than Malaysia and Sweden further deteriorates environment through carbon emissions. study first systematic evaluation of PoW consensus-based blockchain applications’ environmental consequences. We found 11 significant Theories, 6 Contexts, 26 Methodologies (TCM) in 60 reviewed articles. propose an Antecedents, Drivers, Outcomes (ADO) model, depicts marginal profits drive high consumption emissions, with non-renewable proportionally responsible The article distinctively uses integrated TCM-ADO framework literature synthesis PESTLE reporting future research areas. use following four frameworks: PRISMA; TCM; ADO; review. Profit identified as one most drivers proposes 65 areas makes theoretical contributions may interest academicians, practitioners, social stakeholders.