From the Community: Blockchain for the Global Goals

Part of our #SocialGoodTech series on emerging technologies

Blockchain is a revolutionary new way to structure data, allowing global citizens around the world to share a digital ledger to track transactions through a network of computers. Blockchain has the potential to limit the need for the central authority figures that currently manage these relationships. From fighting hunger to global health, organizations and entrepreneurs are already exploring how this emerging technology and its secure transaction capabilities could transform the development space.

The +SocialGood community came together for a #SocialGoodTech chat to discuss how this emerging technology can be used to create a better world. Find the full summary of the conversation on Twitter moments here.

All the answers and solutions below are from you, the community!

Blockchain has the potential to transform many industries. From the fishing industry to international finance, blockchain technology is currently being used to add accountability and transparency to industries around the world. Check out some of the solutions shared:

• WWF and partners use blockchain to help stamp out illegal fishing and human rights abuses
• The UN’s WFP is combating hunger in refugees camps in Jordan by utilizing blockchain technology
• Singapore is testing the use of blockchain payments to help 19,000 migrants transact without banking access

It is up to us to make sure new processes are sustainable, inclusive, and just. Participants raised concerns around blockchain’s climate impact, it’s lack of legal oversights (which gives way to illegal activity), and the high barrier of entry for marginalized populations. Some good news:

• The Linux Foundation sponsored Hyperledger initiative is working to create new standards to provide governance framework and mechanisms
• TechSoup has launched a pilot project with the Blockchain Trust Accelerator to support its use by civil society and organizations worldwide
• The United Nations is exploring the possibility of utilizing blockchain technology to further climate action

We are only at the beginning of the exploration process. Blockchain solutions have started to appear across the development sector. However, we have only scraped the surface of the transformative impact that could be in store. Here are some articles that were shared about the future of blockchain for social good:

• Sustainia looks at the future of blockchain and development aid
• Fast Company argues that 2018 is going to be a massive year for blockchain
• The IFC explores opportunities for private enterprises in emerging markets

Do you have a blockchain solution? Check out UNICEF’s funding opportunity for start-ups.

Thank you to everyone who joined the conversation! Remember you can get updates about emerging technology solutions for social good year round by subscribing to the +SocialGood monthly newsletter. Subscribe here.