Crypto mining allegedly worsening air pollution in Iran Mining for Bitcoin may be contributing to “thick layers of toxic smog” and blackouts across many Iranian cities. 7886 Total views News The push by many in Iran to establish the country as a mecca for crypto miners may be having some unintended environmental consequences. According to a Bloomberg report, the energy requirements of Bitcoin (BTC) and crypto mining in Iran coupled with the demand for heat in an exceptionally cold winter have contributed to a natural gas shortage, forcing power plants to allegedly burn "low-grade fuel oils" to meet the country’s electrical needs. The result has been "thick layers of toxic smog" across many Iranian cities and blackouts as some power plants have closed.