This week, Ripple’s chairman Chris Larsen praised the crypto network’s recent strides toward adopting greener energy solutions. His remarks followed Ripple’s presentation of the ‘Skull of Satoshi’ artwork at the 2025 Bitcoin conference, showcasing the company’s commitment to fostering better relations within the cryptocurrency community.
Ripple Bridges A Divide
According to posts on X, Larsen independently funded the ‘Change the Code, Not the Climate’ campaign back in 2023, investing six figures to support Canadian artist Benjamin Von Wong’s piece. The campaign aimed to encourage Bitcoin to transition from its energy-intensive proof-of-work system to a more environmentally friendly alternative. Although the initiative did not achieve the intended impact, Larsen maintained an optimistic outlook, clarifying that Ripple itself did not finance the campaign.
In early 2023 when I funded the “Change the Code” campaign, my goal was to see if there was a way to turn Bitcoin into an accelerator for direct air capture. The campaign didn’t work, and that’s ok! Note – Ripple did not fund this campaign.
Bitcoin’s energy transition in the… https://t.co/qIcadDtzDu
— Chris Larsen (@chrislarsensf) May 28, 2025
Bitcoin’s Shift To Renewables
Recent reports from the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance indicate that approximately 50% of Bitcoin’s energy is now generated from renewable sources including wind, hydropower, and even nuclear energy. Additionally, miners have leveraged waste gas projects, transforming flared natural gas into fuel for their operations. This notable shift signifies significant progress since five years ago, demonstrating Bitcoin’s capacity for environmental improvement without necessitating changes to its underlying code.
Special guest at Bitcoin 2025 – the Skull of Satoshi, donated by @Ripple to the Bitcoin community. The Skull will now have a permanent home at the Bitcoin Museum in Nashville. pic.twitter.com/Eo3kNqRvGp
— The Bitcoin Conference (@TheBitcoinConf) May 28, 2025
Skull Of Satoshi Donation
At the recent conference, Ripple officially presented the skull sculpture to the broader Bitcoin community. This act transcended a mere publicity stunt; it symbolized Ripple’s desire to dispel the ongoing tensions between XRP advocates and Bitcoin proponents. Historically, these groups have clashed over issues of transaction fees, speed, and now, environmental considerations. By gifting a thought-provoking artwork, Ripple implicitly advocates for dialogue rather than discord.
Call For A United Crypto Front
Ripple’s CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, also joined Larsen in promoting a spirit of collaboration. He urged all cryptocurrency stakeholders to unite and called for clearer regulatory frameworks while highlighting the need to prioritize services for the unbanked population.
Garlinghouse emphasized the commonalities shared between XRP and Bitcoin supporters, suggesting that it is crucial to band together against external pressures such as tightening regulations and market skepticism.
Looking to the future, Ripple’s initiative may redefine the landscape of interactions among rival networks. It illustrates that even historically polarized factions can find a basis for unity. Furthermore, it posits that significant art—and innovative thinking—can serve as pathways to reconciliation.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
