In a recent development, authorities from Buncombe County in North Carolina have proposed a temporary ban on cryptocurrency mining for a duration of one year.
This proposal aims to categorize crypto mining as a distinct type of land use, differentiating it from other economic activities conducted by data centers.
As a result, the issuance of permits for the extraction of crypto assets in the region will be limited during the moratorium.
The ban would primarily affect mining companies and owners of bitcoin farms that utilize three or more computing devices for mining operations.
The proposal has been motivated by concerns over the detrimental impact of bitcoin mining, such as high electricity consumption, environmental damage, e-waste, and noise pollution.
Legislators in North Carolina hope that the ban will help mitigate these issues.
This move follows the recent adoption of a bill by Texas lawmakers that aims to limit subsidies and benefits for crypto miners while strengthening regulatory oversight.