Crypto

Bhutan Unveils Concealed Bitcoin Mining Operations, Satellite Data Reveals

Published November 26, 2023

In an unprecedented discovery, the secluded Himalayan nation of Bhutan, known for its commitment to happiness and environmental stewardship, has been operating clandestine Bitcoin mining endeavors. According to recent findings derived from satellite imagery obtained by Planet Labs, Satellite Vu, and Google Earth, coupled with insights from informed individuals privy to Bhutan's cryptocurrency engagements, the existence of what seem to be four undisclosed crypto-mining facilities has come to light.

The Revelation of Bhutan's Hidden Crypto Mines

The report emerges amidst a backdrop where Bhutan has made no known announcements or indications regarding such enterprises. The discovery of the mining sites, which are reportedly state-owned, poses numerous questions regarding the motivations and potential impact on Bhutan's economy and environment. With Bitcoin's CRYPTO:BTC energy-intensive mining process, the revelation could contradict Bhutan's ecological commitments, which includes its constitution-mandated stipulation to maintain at least 60% forest coverage.

Google's Role in Unearthing the Secret Facilities

Alphabet Inc. GOOG, the parent company of Google that satellited the imagery tools, has inadvertently contributed to these findings. Established on October 2, 2015, Alphabet's restructuring from Google parented several former subsidiaries, including the technological innovators providing satellite imagery. As the fourth-largest tech entity globally by revenue, Alphabet stands as one of the most significant contributors to the digital era, inadvertently supporting the unmasking of hidden cryptocurrency enterprises like Bhutan's.

The Bhutanese government has yet to release any statements in response to these findings. Meanwhile, the crypto community and environmental watchdogs are keenly monitoring the unfoldment of this narrative, observing the potential repercussions it may have within the spheres of finance, technology, and the conservation of Bhutan's venerated natural landscapes.

Bhutan, Bitcoin, Mining