XRP Co-Founder Rejects Claims Ripple Funded Anti-Bitcoin Ad

XRP co-founder Chris Larsen has directly addressed ongoing rumors surrounding Ripple, emphasizing that the company did not sponsor the widely criticized “Change the Code” campaign against Bitcoin’s energy usage. This statement aims to clear up confusion about Ripple’s involvement in Bitcoin-related environmental debates.

The “Change the Code” initiative, which called for Bitcoin to abandon its proof-of-work (PoW) model in favor of more environmentally sustainable alternatives, was widely associated with Ripple due in part to Larsen’s vocal support for the idea. However, Larsen recently clarified that while he personally collaborated with environmental group Greenpeace in promoting this message, the effort was independent of Ripple’s corporate activities.

In his latest statement on the topic, Larsen acknowledged the significant shifts in Bitcoin’s energy profile. He highlighted recent findings from the University of Cambridge, pointing out that a substantial portion of Bitcoin mining now utilizes renewable energy sources. This includes hydropower, nuclear energy, and wind farms. Furthermore, he explained that some miners have begun employing flared gas, a byproduct of oil extraction that would otherwise go to waste, as an alternative power source for mining operations.

This pivot in tone comes after years of criticism from Ripple executives about the environmental impact of PoW mining. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse had previously referred to Bitcoin and Ethereum mining as a “massive waste” of energy, stirring controversy within the broader crypto community. These past remarks resurfaced in light of Ripple’s donation of the “Satoshi Skull” statue to a prominent Bitcoin museum—a move seen by some as ironic or hypocritical given Ripple’s past stance on Bitcoin’s energy use.

Some skeptics still question the sincerity of Larson’s clarification, noting that the campaign’s website urging Bitcoin to change its code remains active. This has caused lingering reputational tensions between certain Bitcoin maxis and supporters of Ripple and XRP. Despite Larsen’s efforts to distance the blockchain company from the campaign, public perception is harder to shift once narratives become embedded in community discourse.

The broader discussion underscores the complex relationship between Bitcoin and other crypto projects like XRP. While Ripple has positioned itself as a greener, more scalable alternative to BTC, the industry-wide conversation around sustainability, decentralization, and technological evolution continues to evolve. This recent clarification by Larsen appears aimed at reducing friction between Ripple and the larger crypto ecosystem, seeking to focus on shared innovation rather than rivalry.

Ultimately, the dialogue around XRP, Ripple, and environmental responsibility reflects broader conversations happening across the digital asset space. As both retail investors and institutions increasingly consider sustainability as part of their investment strategy, these themes will likely remain prominent within the industry narrative.

Despite past tensions, Larsen’s statement signals a readiness to acknowledge Bitcoin’s adaptability and possibly foster a more unified outlook for blockchain development. Whether this will ease frictions between Ripple and Bitcoin loyalists remains to be seen, but it marks an important moment of transparency from a key player in the XRP ecosystem.

Related: Expert Advice: Sell XRP If You’re Confused

As Ripple continues to champion innovations in enterprise blockchain solutions, its association with environmental consciousness—whether real or perceived—will remain critical in defining its brand identity. With Larsen doubling down on transparency and reaffirming the company’s non-involvement in divisive campaigns, XRP advocates may hope that the focus will return to Ripple’s technological strengths and real-world applications.