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· 2021 · released

This Machine Greens

Director
Jamie King
Producer
Enrique Posner (L9 Goodes)Jamie King (Schism Films)Zack Weiner (Bitcoin Movie Club)Joe Gallagher (Bitcoin Movie Club)
Runtime
102 min

Synopsis

This Machine Greens explores Bitcoin’s complex relationship with energy and climate, featuring leading economists and cryptocurrency researchers. Presented by Swan Bitcoin, the documentary challenges environmental misconceptions about Bitcoin mining and argues for its net positive environmental impact through renewable energy integration and mining efficiency innovation.

Overview

Directed by Jamie King (Steal This Film series), This Machine Greens was the first documentary to be fully crowdfunded and financed entirely in Bitcoin. Released September 14, 2021, the film premiered online and was presented by Swan Bitcoin.

Key Themes

  • Bitcoin & Energy: Examines the nuanced relationship between Bitcoin mining and energy consumption
  • Environmental Claims: Dispels misconceptions about Bitcoin’s environmental footprint
  • Mining Economics: Explores how Bitcoin mining incentivizes renewable energy adoption
  • Climate Narrative: Presents evidence for Bitcoin as a net positive for environmental outcomes
  • Lyn Alden: Swan Bitcoin Lead Economic Advisor
  • Nic Carter: Cryptocurrency investor and analyst
  • Alex Gladstein: Bitcoin and humanitarian technology researcher

Production & Distribution

The film was produced through a novel funding model—entirely crowdfunded in Bitcoin—and released on YouTube and Swan Bitcoin’s platforms. The production team went on to develop TRUST, a follow-up documentary project, also crowdfunded in Bitcoin.

Release Timeline

  • Production: 2021
  • Premiere: September 14, 2021 (online)
  • NYC Event: September 23, 2021 (The Atelier Condo, hosted by Bitcoin Movie Club)

Sources

  1. Swan Bitcoin (2021). “This Machine Greens” - Bitcoin Documentary - Online Premiere. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-7dMVcVWgc

  2. NY UNDRESSED (October 1, 2021). “The Bitcoin Movie Club Hosted Premiere of This Machine Greens at The Atelier Condo.” https://nyundressed.com/the-bitcoin-movie-club-hosted-premiere-of-this-machine-greens-at-the-atelier-condo

  3. University of Victoria Online Academic Community (2022). “15. Bitcoin Movies – Bitcoin – A Tool for Social Change.” https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/bitcoin/movies