How to Profit from Cryptocurrency Mining

1. Overview Of Cryptocurrency Mining

1.1. What Is Blockchain And Cryptocurrency Mining

Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual form of currency that uses cryptography for security. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments and central banks, cryptocurrencies operate on a decentralized network using blockchain technology. A blockchain is a distributed ledger that records all transactions across a network of computers. This ledger is public and immutable, meaning once a transaction is recorded, it cannot be altered.

Cryptocurrency mining is the process by which new coins are created and transactions are added to the blockchain. Miners use specialized hardware and software to solve complex mathematical problems, which verify and secure transactions on the network. In return for their efforts, miners are rewarded with newly minted cryptocurrency coins and transaction fees.

1.2. Key Factors Influencing Mining Profitability

Mining profitability is influenced by several key factors:

1. Cryptocurrency Price: The value of the cryptocurrency being mined directly impacts profitability. Higher prices generally lead to higher earnings.
2. Mining Difficulty: This measures how hard it is to find a new block. As more miners join the network, the difficulty increases, which can reduce individual miners’ rewards.
3. Hardware Efficiency: The performance and power consumption of mining hardware affect profitability. More efficient hardware can yield higher returns.
4. Electricity Costs: Mining requires significant electricity. Lower electricity costs can enhance profitability.
5. Pool Fees: Joining a mining pool can increase chances of earning rewards, but pools usually charge fees, impacting net earnings.

2. Is Cryptocurrency Mining Profitable?

2.1. Current State of Cryptocurrency Mining Profitability

Cryptocurrency mining profitability has fluctuated significantly over the years, influenced by market conditions, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. As of mid-2024, mining profitability is heavily dependent on the specific cryptocurrency being mined, the efficiency of mining hardware, and the cost of electricity.

Bitcoin (BTC) remains one of the most mined cryptocurrencies, but its profitability has been challenged by increasing mining difficulty and halving events, which reduce the block reward. Other cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum (ETH), have seen changes in profitability due to network upgrades and transitions, such as Ethereum’s move to Proof of Stake (PoS).

2.2. Mining Difficulty and Its Impact on Earnings

Mining difficulty is a measure of how challenging it is to solve the mathematical problems required to add a new block to the blockchain. This difficulty adjusts approximately every two weeks (for Bitcoin) to ensure a consistent block production rate. As more miners join the network, the difficulty increases, making it harder to earn rewards.

High mining difficulty means that miners need more computational power (hash rate) to solve the puzzles, which can lead to increased operational costs due to the need for more powerful and energy-consuming hardware. Consequently, when the mining difficulty is high, individual miners may see reduced earnings unless they have access to highly efficient and cost-effective mining setups.

2.3. Alternative Ways to Earn Cryptocurrency

Aside from traditional mining, there are several alternative methods to earn cryptocurrency:

1. Staking: In Proof of Stake (PoS) networks, participants can earn rewards by holding and “staking” their coins to support network operations. This method requires less energy compared to mining.
2. Trading: Buying and selling cryptocurrencies on exchanges to profit from price fluctuations is a common way to earn cryptocurrency. However, this requires a good understanding of market dynamics and carries significant risk.
3. Yield Farming: In decentralized finance (DeFi), users can lend or provide liquidity to earn interest or tokens as rewards. This involves participating in various DeFi protocols and pools.
4. Airdrops and Forks: Occasionally, cryptocurrency projects distribute free tokens (airdrops) to holders of existing cryptocurrencies or create new coins through blockchain forks, providing additional earning opportunities.

3. How Does Cryptocurrency Mining Work? (Technical Overview)

3.1. The Process of Mining in Simple Terms

Cryptocurrency mining is the process by which transactions are verified and added to the blockchain, ensuring the security and integrity of the network. Here’s a simplified explanation of how it works:

1. Transaction Verification: When users initiate transactions, they are grouped into a block. Miners compete to solve complex mathematical puzzles to verify these transactions.
2. Puzzle Solving: The puzzle involves finding a specific value (nonce) that, when hashed (a process of converting data into a fixed-size string of characters), produces a hash value meeting certain criteria (e.g., starting with a specific number of zeros). This process is known as Proof of Work (PoW).
3. Block Creation: The first miner to solve the puzzle broadcasts the solution to the network. Other miners verify the solution, and if it’s correct, the block is added to the blockchain.
4. Reward: The successful miner is rewarded with newly minted coins and transaction fees from the block.

3.2. Proof of Work (PoW) Mining

Proof of Work is the most common consensus mechanism used in cryptocurrency mining. It requires miners to perform computational work to solve cryptographic puzzles. This work, measured in hash rate, ensures that the network remains secure and resistant to attacks. Key points about PoW mining include:

• Security: PoW makes it computationally expensive to alter transaction history, protecting the network from double-spending and other attacks.
• Energy Consumption: PoW mining is energy-intensive, requiring significant computational power, which translates to high electricity consumption.

3.3. Alternative Consensus Mechanisms: Proof of Stake (PoS)

While Proof of Work is widely used, alternative consensus mechanisms exist, such as Proof of Stake (PoS). PoS involves validators (stakers) who are chosen to create new blocks and validate transactions based on the number of coins they hold and are willing to lock up as collateral. Key points about PoS include:

• Energy Efficiency: PoS is less energy-intensive than PoW, as it doesn’t require extensive computational work.
• Security: PoS still ensures network security by economically incentivizing validators to act honestly, as they risk losing their staked coins for malicious behavior.
• Not Mineable: Unlike PoW, PoS doesn’t involve mining. Validators are chosen to create blocks based on their stake.

4. Choosing a Profitable Cryptocurrency to Mine

4.1. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Coin to Mine

Selecting the right cryptocurrency to mine is crucial for ensuring profitability. Several factors should be considered:

1. Price: The market price of the cryptocurrency significantly impacts profitability. Higher prices generally lead to higher potential earnings.
2. Mining Difficulty: This determines how hard it is to mine a new block. Lower difficulty can mean easier and more frequent rewards, whereas higher difficulty can reduce earnings.
3. Coin Supply: The total supply and issuance rate of a cryptocurrency affect its long-term value and mining rewards. Cryptocurrencies with a limited supply can become more valuable over time.
4. Network Stability: A stable and secure network with active development and a supportive community can provide long-term mining opportunities.

4.2. Researching Current Trends and Identifying Profitable Coins

To identify profitable coins to mine, it’s essential to stay updated with current market trends and technological developments. Tools like Google Trends can help gauge the popularity and interest in specific cryptocurrencies. Additionally, websites like CoinWarz and WhatToMine provide valuable insights into mining profitability based on current network conditions and market prices.

4.3. Popular Mineable Coins

Several cryptocurrencies are popular among miners due to their profitability and stability. Here are a few examples:

1. Bitcoin (BTC): The first and most well-known cryptocurrency, Bitcoin remains a primary choice for miners. However, its high mining difficulty and increasing hardware requirements mean it’s often profitable only for large-scale operations with access to cheap electricity.
2. Ethereum (ETH): Until its transition to Proof of Stake (PoS), Ethereum has been a popular choice for GPU mining due to its relatively lower difficulty and higher block rewards. However, miners should stay updated on network changes impacting profitability.
3. Litecoin (LTC): Known as the silver to Bitcoin’s gold, Litecoin offers faster transaction times and lower difficulty, making it a viable option for miners.
4. Ravencoin (RVN): A relatively newer coin focused on asset transfer and issuance, Ravencoin is designed to be ASIC-resistant, making it more accessible to GPU miners.

5. Cryptocurrency Mining Hardware

5.1. Importance of Efficient Hardware for Profitable Mining

The efficiency of mining hardware is crucial for profitability. Efficient hardware can perform more calculations per second (hash rate) while consuming less power. The right balance between performance and energy consumption can significantly impact overall profitability, especially in regions with high electricity costs.

5.2. Different Mining Hardware Options

1. CPUs (Central Processing Units):
   • Historical Perspective: CPUs were the first type of hardware used for mining in the early days of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. However, as the mining difficulty increased, CPUs became less viable due to their relatively low hash rate and high power consumption.
   • Current Use: Today, CPU mining is mostly limited to newer, less popular cryptocurrencies with lower difficulty levels. It is generally not profitable for well-established coins.
2. GPUs (Graphics Processing Units):
   • More Powerful: GPUs are more powerful than CPUs in terms of parallel processing capabilities, making them more suitable for mining.
   • Higher Profitability: GPUs offer a higher hash rate and are more energy-efficient, making them a popular choice for mining cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Monero, and Ravencoin.
   • Versatility: GPUs can mine various algorithms, allowing miners to switch between different coins based on profitability.
3. ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits):
   • Highly Specialized: ASICs are designed specifically for mining a particular cryptocurrency. They offer the highest hash rates and are the most energy-efficient mining hardware.
   • Most Efficient: ASICs can outperform GPUs and CPUs by a significant margin, making them the most profitable option for mining established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Litecoin.
   • Expensive: ASICs are costly and have a limited lifespan, making the initial investment high. Additionally, they lack versatility as they can only mine specific coins.

5.3. Guidance on Choosing Hardware Based on Budget and Chosen Coin

• Budget Considerations: For beginners or those with a limited budget, starting with a GPU mining rig can be a good option. GPUs offer a balance between performance, cost, and versatility.
• Chosen Coin: The choice of hardware should align with the specific cryptocurrency being mined. For example, ASICs are the best option for Bitcoin, while GPUs are suitable for Ethereum and other altcoins.
• Electricity Costs: Evaluate electricity costs in your region. In areas with high electricity prices, investing in the most energy-efficient hardware is essential to maintain profitability.

6. Setting Up a Mining Rig

6.1. Essential Components for a Mining Rig

To set up a mining rig, you will need several key components. Here’s a list of the essential parts:

1. Motherboard: Choose a motherboard with multiple PCI-E slots to support multiple GPUs. Popular options include the ASRock H110 Pro BTC+ and the MSI Z170A Gaming Pro Carbon.
2. CPU: Since mining is primarily GPU-intensive, a basic CPU is sufficient. An Intel Celeron or Pentium processor usually works well.
3. GPUs (Graphics Processing Units): The most critical component. Choose high-performance GPUs like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti, RTX 3070, or AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT.
4. RAM: 8GB of RAM is typically enough for most mining setups.
5. Storage: A basic SSD with at least 120GB of storage is recommended to run the operating system and mining software.
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU): A high-wattage PSU with an 80 PLUS certification for efficiency is essential. The wattage requirement depends on the number of GPUs; use PSU calculators to determine the correct size.
7. Cooling System: Proper cooling is crucial to prevent overheating. Use additional case fans and consider liquid cooling solutions for optimal thermal management.
8. Frame: A sturdy frame or open-air case to house and organize your mining rig components.
9. Risers: PCI-E riser cables or cards to connect multiple GPUs to the motherboard.

6.2. Basic Instructions on Building a Mining Rig

1. Assembly:
   • Start by mounting the motherboard onto the frame or case.
   • Install the CPU, apply thermal paste, and attach the CPU cooler.
   • Insert the RAM into the motherboard slots.
   • Connect the SSD to the motherboard.
   • Attach the GPUs to the PCI-E risers and connect the risers to the motherboard.
   • Connect the PSU to the motherboard, GPUs, and other components.
2. Setup:
   • Connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the rig.
   • Install the operating system (typically a Linux distribution or Windows).
   • Install mining software (e.g., CGMiner, EasyMiner).
   • Configure the mining software with your wallet address and mining pool details.
3. Testing:
   • Power on the rig and check for proper operation.
   • Monitor temperatures and performance using software tools.
   • Adjust settings for optimal performance and stability.

6.3. Importance of Proper Ventilation and Power Consumption

Proper ventilation is critical to prevent overheating, which can damage components and reduce the lifespan of your hardware. Ensure your mining rig is in a well-ventilated area and use additional fans or cooling solutions if necessary.

Power consumption is a significant factor in mining profitability. Efficient power management can reduce electricity costs and enhance profitability. Use power-efficient hardware and optimize settings to balance performance and energy usage.

7. Mining Software and Pools

7.1. The Role of Mining Software

Mining software is essential for connecting your mining hardware to the blockchain network and mining pool. It facilitates the process of solving cryptographic puzzles required to verify transactions and create new blocks. The software communicates with the network, receives work, performs hashing calculations, and submits results back to the network.

7.2. Popular Mining Software Options

Several mining software options are popular among miners, each offering different features and compatibility with various cryptocurrencies and hardware:

1. CGMiner:
   • Compatibility: Supports a wide range of hardware, including ASICs, GPUs, and FPGAs.
   • Features: Advanced features like overclocking, fan speed control, and remote interface capabilities.
   • Usability: Command-line interface, which may be challenging for beginners but highly customizable for advanced users.
2. EasyMiner:
   • Compatibility: Designed for use with both CPUs and GPUs.
   • Features: User-friendly graphical interface, making it suitable for beginners.
   • Usability: Easy to set up and configure, integrates with popular mining pools.
3. BFGMiner:
   • Compatibility: Supports ASICs and FPGAs, with some GPU support.
   • Features: Highly customizable, supports dynamic clocking, monitoring, and remote interface.
   • Usability: Command-line interface, similar to CGMiner, preferred by advanced users.
4. Awesome Miner:
   • Compatibility: Works with various mining hardware, including ASICs and GPUs.
   • Features: Centralized management for multiple mining rigs, real-time monitoring, and notifications.
   • Usability: Web-based interface, making it accessible from different devices and easy to manage large-scale operations.

7.3. Benefits of Joining a Mining Pool

Mining pools allow miners to combine their computational power, increasing the chances of successfully mining a block and earning rewards. Here are some benefits of joining a mining pool:

1. Increased Earning Potential: By pooling resources, miners can achieve a higher and more consistent payout compared to solo mining.
2. Shared Resources: Mining pools distribute the work among participants, making it possible to mine even with less powerful hardware.
3. Reduced Variability: Pooling reduces the variance in earnings, providing more stable and predictable income for miners.

7.4. Different Mining Pool Payout Structures

Mining pools use different payout structures to distribute rewards among participants. Here are some common payout methods:

1. Proportional:
   • Description: Rewards are distributed based on the proportion of shares contributed by each miner.
   • Pros: Simple and straightforward, fair distribution based on contribution.
   • Cons: Earnings can fluctuate based on the pool’s overall performance.
2. Pay-Per-Share (PPS):
   • Description: Miners receive a fixed reward for each share submitted, regardless of the pool’s success in finding blocks.
   • Pros: Predictable income, reduces earnings variability.
   • Cons: Pool operators bear the risk of not finding blocks, which can result in higher pool fees.
3. Pay-Per-Last-N-Shares (PPLNS):
   • Description: Rewards are distributed based on the number of shares submitted in the last N shares before a block is found.
   • Pros: Encourages consistent participation, reduces the risk of pool hopping.
   • Cons: Earnings can be less predictable compared to PPS.

8. Calculating Cryptocurrency Mining Profitability

8.1. Introduction to Online Mining Calculators

Mining profitability calculators are essential tools for determining the potential returns from cryptocurrency mining. These calculators take into account various factors such as hardware costs, electricity costs, mining difficulty, and current cryptocurrency prices to provide an estimate of potential earnings.

8.2. Factors Considered in Mining Calculators

1. Hardware Costs:
   • Initial investment in mining hardware (GPUs, ASICs, CPUs).
   • Maintenance and potential replacement costs.
2. Electricity Costs:
   • The cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in your region.
   • Power consumption of mining hardware, usually measured in watts.
3. Mining Difficulty:
   • The current difficulty level of mining the chosen cryptocurrency, which affects the frequency of successfully mining new blocks.
4. Pool Fees:
   • Fees charged by mining pools, usually a percentage of the rewards.
   • These fees can impact net earnings from mining.
5. Coin Price:
   • The current market price of the cryptocurrency being mined.
   • Price volatility can significantly impact profitability.

8.3. Step-by-Step Guide on Using a Mining Profitability Calculator

1. Select a Calculator:
   • Popular options include WhatToMine, CoinWarz, and NiceHash Profitability Calculator.
2. Enter Hardware Details:
   • Input the type of hardware you are using (e.g., GPU, ASIC).
   • Specify the number of units and their hash rate (e.g., MH/s, GH/s).
3. Input Electricity Costs:
   • Provide the electricity rate per kWh in your region.
   • Include any additional costs related to cooling and maintenance if applicable.
4. Configure Mining Details:
   • Select the cryptocurrency you intend to mine.
   • Input the current mining difficulty (this is often auto-populated by the calculator).
5. Add Pool Fees:
   • Input the percentage fee charged by your chosen mining pool.
6. Calculate:
   • The calculator will provide an estimate of daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings.
   • It will also show the break-even point, considering initial hardware investment and ongoing costs.

8.4. Example Calculation

Suppose you are using a mining rig with the following specifications:

• Hardware: 3 NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 GPUs, each with a hash rate of 60 MH/s.
• Electricity Cost: $0.12 per kWh.
• Mining Pool Fee: 1%.
• Coin Price: $3,000 for Ethereum.
• Mining Difficulty: 7,500 TH (auto-populated by the calculator).

After inputting these details into the calculator, you would get an estimate of your potential earnings and break-even time. Adjustments to any of these factors can significantly impact the results, so it’s essential to keep them up to date.

9. Alternatives to Traditional Mining

9.1. Cloud Mining Services

Cloud mining allows individuals to rent mining hardware or hash power from a third-party provider. This eliminates the need for purchasing and maintaining physical mining equipment. Here are the pros and cons of cloud mining:

Pros:

• No Hardware Maintenance: Cloud mining providers manage and maintain the mining hardware, removing the need for users to deal with technical issues.
• Accessibility: It’s easy to start mining without significant upfront investment in hardware.
• Flexibility: Users can choose from various contracts and mining plans based on their budget and desired level of involvement.

Cons:

• Cost: Cloud mining contracts can be expensive, and the return on investment (ROI) may be lower than traditional mining.
• Control: Users have little to no control over the mining hardware or operations.
• Risk of Scams: The cloud mining industry has seen numerous scams and fraudulent providers, making it essential to choose reputable companies.

9.2. Browser Mining

Browser mining allows users to mine cryptocurrencies directly through their web browsers using JavaScript. This method uses the computational power of the user’s device. While it gained some popularity, it has several limitations:

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Users can start mining by simply visiting a website and enabling the mining script.
• No Special Hardware Needed: It can be done with any computer or device with a web browser.

Cons:

• Low Profitability: Browser mining yields very low returns, making it mostly unprofitable.
• Security Concerns: Mining scripts can be hijacked or maliciously embedded into websites without users’ consent, leading to security risks.
• Device Wear and Tear: Continuous mining can lead to excessive wear on the user’s hardware.

9.3. Other Emerging Trends

1. Proof of Stake (PoS) and Staking:
   • Description: Instead of mining, PoS allows users to validate transactions and create new blocks by staking their coins as collateral. This method is less energy-intensive and can be more profitable for long-term holders.
   • Popular Coins: Ethereum 2.0, Cardano, Polkadot.
2. Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Yield Farming:
   • Description: Yield farming involves providing liquidity to DeFi protocols and earning rewards in the form of interest or tokens. It’s a way to earn passive income without the need for mining.
   • Platforms: Uniswap, Aave, Compound.
3. Masternodes:
   • Description: Masternodes are special servers that perform advanced functions in a blockchain network, such as transaction validation and governance. Running a masternode requires a significant amount of the network’s cryptocurrency but offers consistent rewards.
   • Popular Coins: Dash, PIVX, Zcoin.

10. Important Considerations and Risks

10.1. High Electricity Consumption

One of the most significant considerations in cryptocurrency mining is the high electricity consumption. Mining operations require substantial electrical power to run the hardware, which can lead to high electricity bills. This is particularly important in regions with expensive electricity rates. Here are some key points to consider:

• Cost Impact: High electricity costs can significantly reduce mining profitability. It is essential to calculate electricity expenses and consider them in the overall profitability analysis.
• Energy Efficiency: Investing in energy-efficient mining hardware can help mitigate electricity costs. Using renewable energy sources can also reduce expenses and environmental impact.

10.2. Volatile Nature of Cryptocurrency Prices

Cryptocurrency prices are highly volatile and can fluctuate dramatically within short periods. This volatility impacts mining profitability in several ways:

• Earnings Variability: Sudden drops in cryptocurrency prices can reduce the value of mining rewards, making it less profitable or even unprofitable.
• Market Timing: Miners need to stay informed about market trends and may need to adjust their operations based on price movements. Some miners may choose to hold their mined coins in anticipation of future price increases, while others may sell immediately to cover operational costs.

10.3. Ongoing Research and Adapting Strategies

The cryptocurrency mining landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and market conditions emerging regularly. Staying informed and adapting strategies are crucial for maintaining profitability and minimizing risks:

• Technological Advancements: New mining hardware and software developments can impact efficiency and profitability. Keeping up with the latest advancements can provide a competitive edge.
• Regulatory Changes: Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are increasingly focusing on cryptocurrencies. Changes in regulations can affect mining operations, from energy consumption restrictions to taxation policies.
• Market Dynamics: Mining profitability can be influenced by factors such as mining difficulty adjustments, network upgrades (e.g., Ethereum’s transition to Proof of Stake), and competition among miners. Adapting to these changes is essential for long-term success.

10.4. Security Risks

Cryptocurrency mining involves several security risks, including cyber-attacks, malware, and hacking attempts. Protecting mining operations and wallets is crucial to safeguarding earnings:

• Cybersecurity Measures: Implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect mining rigs and wallets. Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and keep software updated.
• Physical Security: Ensure the physical security of mining hardware to prevent theft and tampering.
• Wallet Security: Use secure wallets to store mined cryptocurrencies. Hardware wallets are considered one of the safest options for long-term storage.

Conclusion

Summarize the Key Takeaways for Profitable Cryptocurrency Mining

Cryptocurrency mining can be a profitable venture, but it requires careful planning, investment, and ongoing management. Here are the key takeaways:

• Understanding the Basics: Knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology is fundamental. Mining involves verifying transactions and securing the network through computational work.
• Choosing the Right Hardware: Efficient and powerful hardware, such as GPUs and ASICs, is crucial for profitable mining. The choice of hardware should align with the specific cryptocurrency being mined and the available budget.
• Calculating Profitability: Utilize online mining calculators to estimate potential earnings. Consider factors such as hardware costs, electricity expenses, mining difficulty, pool fees, and cryptocurrency prices.
• Exploring Alternatives: Besides traditional mining, explore alternatives like cloud mining, staking, DeFi yield farming, and running masternodes to diversify income sources.
• Adapting to Market Changes: Stay updated with technological advancements, market trends, and regulatory changes. Adapt strategies to remain competitive and profitable.
• Mitigating Risks: Address the high electricity consumption and volatility of cryptocurrency prices. Implement robust security measures to protect mining operations and earnings.

Encourage Responsible Mining Practices and Resource Management

Responsible mining practices and resource management are essential for sustainable and profitable operations:

• Energy Efficiency: Invest in energy-efficient hardware and consider renewable energy sources to reduce costs and environmental impact.
• Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest developments in cryptocurrency mining and blockchain technology. Participate in mining communities and forums to share knowledge and learn from others.
• Risk Management: Diversify mining activities to mitigate risks associated with price volatility and regulatory changes. Maintain a balanced portfolio of mined cryptocurrencies and consider holding some assets for long-term appreciation.

Briefly Mention the Future Outlook of Cryptocurrency Mining

The future of cryptocurrency mining is likely to see continued evolution and adaptation. As blockchain technology advances and new consensus mechanisms emerge, mining practices will evolve to become more efficient and sustainable:

• Transition to Proof of Stake (PoS): With major networks like Ethereum moving to PoS, traditional mining may decrease for some cryptocurrencies, leading to a shift in mining focus.
• Technological Innovations: Advances in mining hardware and software will continue to improve efficiency and profitability. Innovations in cooling systems and energy management will also play a significant role.
• Regulatory Environment: As governments and regulatory bodies increase their focus on cryptocurrencies, miners will need to navigate changing regulations. Compliance and adaptation to new policies will be essential.
• Environmental Considerations: The environmental impact of mining will drive the adoption of greener practices and technologies. Miners will need to balance profitability with sustainability to ensure long-term success.