How NFT is helping in wildfire prevention?
YML, a digital innovation agency, has launched an innovative NFT project called FIREWATCH, which is aimed at funding wildfire prevention efforts in California. This is the first web3-enabled project of its kind and it has gained recognition from various publications like Forbes, Adweek, The Drum, and NFT Evening since its launch on August 31st. The goal of FIREWATCH is to use NFTs for social good by promoting education, awareness, and preventative behavior to address the expansion of forest fires and environmental degradation in California. When someone purchases a FIREWATCH pop-art NFT of California’s landscape, 100% of the proceeds will go towards funding wildfire prevention and reforestation in partnership with One Tree Planted, a non-profit organization dedicated to global reforestation. YML built, designed, and launched FIREWATCH on Solana’s eco-friendly blockchain, ensuring that every transaction is carbon offset.
The FIREWATCH project aims to change the conversation about NFTs and the environment, proving that it is possible to operate the technology sustainably. On average, NFT transactions use 340-kilowatt hours of energy, which is more than one-third of the energy a typical American home consumes in one month. In comparison, Solana transactions use less energy than three Google searches and 17 times less energy than a full phone charge. Amira Valliani, policy lead at the Solana Foundation said, “It’s exciting to see FIREWATCH utilize NFTs on Solana to mobilize community and action around climate change. NFTs are becoming an increasingly popular way for communities to come together around shared causes.”
This project comes at a time when global climate change is becoming increasingly urgent. 2020 and 2021 recorded the highest number of California wildfires in history, with more than 4 million acres burned in the state. Additionally, with the current state of the environment, climate scientists predict a 50% surge in wildfires by 2050. Through FIREWATCH, YML anticipates generating significant funds benefitting fire prevention and restoration projects across the state of California.
