Blockchain 101 and Governance (Part 1 of "Blockchain Technology for Climate Policy Implementation")

Blockchain technologies have been finding real-world utility globally and across the developing world over the last years. An increasing number of blockchain use-cases are being developed as innovators and innovation ecosystems identify new ways of creating value. Blockchain technologies also have a great potential for addressing challenges linked to climate change all over the world. The UN Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) together with its network partner the Blockchain & Climate Institute (BCI) organized a series of six webinars on the topic of Emerging Technologies for Climate Policy Implementation between November 2021 and January 2022. Leading BCI experts together with guest speakers from the public and private sector will introduce blockchain concepts and use-cases across areas such as governance, renewable energy, climate mitigation and adaptation, carbon markets and value chains. Webinar No. 1 covered the core concept of blockchain, its types and benefits, cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, and blockchain governance. What is blockchain technology and how does it differ from other types of data networks? What makes it secure and transparent? How can a blockchain be governed? These and more topics were covered by Mr. Alastair Marke, Director of the BCI, with a guest contribution from Mr. Adrian McCullagh, Law Council of Australia, Digital Commerce Committee, on blockchain governance.