Blockchain and cryptocurrencies often find themselves overshadowed by hype, memecoins, and clicker games. But this isn’t the first time a revolutionary technology has faced such skepticism. When the internet first emerged in the 1990s, it was similarly underestimated—dismissed as a niche interest or a tool for academics, far from the world-changing innovation it has become today.
Much like blockchain today, the internet had a slow and steady rise, initially overshadowed by other developments. Now, web3 is experiencing a similar evolution. While headlines are often grabbed by hype and memecoins, real innovations are quietly reshaping industries and solving real-world problems. In my latest video, I explore 8 blockchain projects that are driving global change. Watch and discover how this technology is creating impact beyond the hype.
Just as the internet transitioned from being misunderstood to mainstream, blockchain is on a similar path, and its real transformation is just beginning.
1. Combatting Plastic Waste: Plastic Bank
Plastic waste is choking our oceans. With Plastic Bank, co-founded by Shaun Frankson and powered by IBM’s blockchain, coastal communities collect plastic waste and earn digital tokens to purchase basic needs. Over 50 million kilograms of plastic have been removed so far.
2. Green Finance: World Bank's Climate Initiatives
Blockchain meets green finance! The World Bank Group's Climate Initiative uses blockchain to issue green bonds, funding renewable energy projects worldwide. Investors can trace every dollar, ensuring full transparency in the fight against climate change.
3. Hunger Relief: WFP's Building Blocks
Hunger relief powered by blockchain. The World Food Programme’s Building Blocks project leverages blockchain to ensure food aid reaches the right refugees efficiently, cutting costs and reducing corruption. This initiative is feeding hundreds of thousands, one block at a time.
4. Fighting Illegal Fishing: WWF's Blockchain Tracker
Illegal fishing threatens our oceans. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is combating this issue with blockchain technology, tracking tuna from the ocean to the table to ensure sustainable fishing practices and protect marine life. This is how blockchain tech is saving our seas.
5. Feeding Children: Akshaya Patra's Meal Tracking
Blockchain helps feed millions of kids in India. The Akshaya Patra Foundation, in collaboration with Accenture, uses blockchain to track every meal delivered in schools, ensuring no child goes hungry while improving efficiency and reducing food waste.
6. Trust in Aid: KfW's TruBudget System
Donor trust, ensured by blockchain. The KfW TruBudget system tracks every dollar in developing nations, ensuring that aid goes where it is needed most. This approach offers full transparency and accountability in the distribution of funds.
7. Digital Identities: ID2020
Millions of people live without legal identities. ID2020, backed by Microsoft, uses blockchain to provide refugees with secure digital IDs, granting them access to essential services like healthcare and banking.
8. Transparent Donations: Blockchain Charity Foundation
Rebuilding trust in charity with blockchain. The Blockchain Charity Foundation (BCF) by Binance, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), ensures that donations reach those in need by tracking every transaction, thereby increasing transparency and impact.
Join Us: Harnessing Blockchain for Global Good
On 20th September in Singapore, join us for "Harnessing Blockchain for Global Good," where top leaders in blockchain will share how they’re driving real-world impact. From financial inclusion to sustainability, this event brings together pioneers making a difference through decentralized technology.
Speakers to Look Forward To:
Helen Liu, COO of Bybit: Discussing "Chain for Good," focusing on how decentralized technology fosters transparency, empowers communities, and addresses global challenges. Watch her insights here.
Abhay Kumar, CEO of Helium: Building a decentralized wireless network that empowers communities with affordable, secure global connectivity. Learn how Helium is using blockchain to democratize access to information and reshape the telecom industry.
John Ng Pangilinan, Managing Partner of Signum Capital: Driving impactful investments in blockchain projects that focus on sustainability and financial inclusion. Hear his insights on how blockchain can solve global issues while creating economic opportunities.
Ready to Be Part of the Change?
Sign up for "Harnessing Blockchain for Global Good" and connect with the industry’s most influential voices working to create real-world impact.
Limited spots are available—register now and see you there!
—FS