By:  Don Driggers

In a surprising development, a trendy bathhouse in Brooklyn has captured attention by utilizing Bitcoin mining to heat its pools. Williamsburg’s Bathhouse took to Instagram to share the innovative approach, garnering a substantial increase in comments and engagement, especially by environmental radicals who find faut with every human activity and connect everything to “climate change”.

A video posted by the bathhouse explains the process behind mining the virtual currency. The narrator outlines the steps involved: first, Bitcoin is mined using specialized software, which consumes electricity and generates heat as a byproduct. Next, the heat generated by the miners is transferred to heat exchangers, which then warm the bathhouse’s pools. The video concludes by highlighting the dual benefit of enjoying a hot pool while also supporting the Bitcoin network, as the pools absorb the heat and circulate cool liquid back to the miners.

While Bitcoin mining is known to be energy-intensive, critics argue that it is harmful to the environment. Some individuals expressed concern about supporting cryptocurrency mining and its associated profits. One user commented negatively, stating their diminished affinity for the bathhouse due to its involvement in Bitcoin mining. Another user outright refused to support such a venture.

In response, Bathhouse emphasized their perspective, stating that they believe Bitcoin could have a positive impact, warranting an open-minded approach. The bathhouse, which originally opened in 2021 in a converted factory, offers various spa treatments, including massages and scrubs, along with a restaurant and bar.

Despite criticism, there were those who applauded the bathhouse’s innovative initiative. One person expressed their excitement, mentioning that they rarely leave Manhattan but had already booked a massage at the bathhouse.

Bathhouse’s co-founder, Jason Goodman, defended their business model, explaining that instead of using electricity solely for pool heating, they repurpose it to power the Bitcoin miners. Goodman claimed that this approach renders them energy-neutral, as the electricity needed to heat the pools is repurposed, effectively using the same energy twice. He further stated that this method helps recover a significant portion of their energy costs while supporting the Bitcoin network and engaging in an exciting engineering project.

To address questions and provide further insight, the bathhouse created a new Frequently Asked Questions section on its website.

Environmental radicals are looking to ban everything from driving to fireplaces to wood and coal fired pizza, this should come as no shock that the extremists are outraged over the bathhouse

Techopedia pointed out that bit coin mining does not have to be a problem for the environment at all;

While it is undeniable that Bitcoin mining has had a significant environmental impact in the past, recent developments in the industry suggest a more sustainable future.

The migration of miners to countries with cheaper, renewable energy sources, combined with the adoption of more energy-efficient mining rigs, has led to decreased power consumption and an increased reliance on renewable energy.

As the industry continues to evolve and innovate, it is essential to remember that Bitcoin mining is just one part of the larger cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Many projects are working on alternative consensus mechanisms like Proof of Stake (PoS), which offer more energy-efficient means of securing a blockchain network. Other cryptocurrencies seek to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint by stimulating recycling.

Moreover, the Bitcoin network itself provides several socio-economic advantages that could offset its environmental impacts, such as financial inclusion, censorship resistance, and the potential for improved cross-border remittance systems.