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Sustainable Consensus Algorithms Applied to Blockchain: A Systematic Literature Review

Author

Listed:
  • Magda Pineda

    (Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Básicas, Fundación Universitaria Juan de Castellanos, Tunja 150001, Colombia)

  • Daladier Jabba

    (Department of Systems and Computer Engineering, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla 080003, Colombia)

  • Wilson Nieto-Bernal

    (Department of Systems and Computer Engineering, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla 080003, Colombia)

  • Alfredo Pérez

    (Department of Computer Science, University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE 68182, USA)

Abstract

In recent years, consensus algorithms have gained significant importance in the context of blockchain networks. These algorithms play a crucial role in allowing network participants to reach agreements on the state of the blockchain without needing a central authority. The present study focuses on carrying out a systematic mapping of these consensus algorithms to explore in detail their use, benefits, and challenges in the context of blockchain networks. Understanding consensus algorithms is essential to appreciating how blockchain networks achieve the reliability and integrity of their distributed ledgers. These algorithms allow network nodes to reach agreement on the validity of transactions and the creation of new blocks on the blockchain. In this sense, consensus algorithms are the engine that drives trust in these decentralized networks. Numerous authors have contributed to the development and understanding of consensus algorithms in the context of blockchain networks. This revolutionary concept paved the way for numerous cryptocurrencies and blockchain systems. Despite advances in this field, significant challenges remain: centralization, fair token distribution, scalability, and sustainability. The energy consumption of blockchain networks, particularly those using algorithms such as Proof of Work, Proof of Stake, Delegated Proof of Stake, Proof of Authority, and hybrid algorithms (Proof of Work/Proof of Stake), has raised concerns about their environmental impact, motivating the scientific and technological community to investigate more sustainable alternatives that promise to reduce energy consumption and contribute to climate change mitigation. Furthermore, interoperability between different blockchains and security in specific environments, such as IoT, are areas that still require significant research attention. This systematic mapping not only seeks to shed light on the current state of consensus algorithms in blockchain, but also their impact on sustainability, identifying those algorithms that, in addition to guaranteeing integrity and security, minimize the environmental footprint, promoting a more efficient use of energy resources, being a relevant approach in a context in which the adoption of sustainable technologies has become a global priority. Understanding and improving these algorithms are critical to unlocking the full potential of blockchain technology in a variety of applications and industry sectors.

Suggested Citation

  • Magda Pineda & Daladier Jabba & Wilson Nieto-Bernal & Alfredo Pérez, 2024. "Sustainable Consensus Algorithms Applied to Blockchain: A Systematic Literature Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(23), pages 1-26, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:23:p:10552-:d:1534774
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Meennapa Rukhiran & Songwut Boonsong & Paniti Netinant, 2024. "Sustainable Optimizing Performance and Energy Efficiency in Proof of Work Blockchain: A Multilinear Regression Approach," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(4), pages 1-38, February.
    2. Ashutosh Sharma & Elizaveta Podoplelova & Gleb Shapovalov & Alexey Tselykh & Alexander Tselykh, 2021. "Sustainable Smart Cities: Convergence of Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(23), pages 1-16, November.
    3. Camilo Mora & Randi L. Rollins & Katie Taladay & Michael B. Kantar & Mason K. Chock & Mio Shimada & Erik C. Franklin, 2018. "Bitcoin emissions alone could push global warming above 2°C," Nature Climate Change, Nature, vol. 8(11), pages 931-933, November.
    4. Jesse Yli-Huumo & Deokyoon Ko & Sujin Choi & Sooyong Park & Kari Smolander, 2016. "Where Is Current Research on Blockchain Technology?—A Systematic Review," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 11(10), pages 1-27, October.
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