  Blockchain and its distributed ledger technology have far-reaching
implications for consumers across the world. Cryptocurrencies like XRP work to
solve key issues in the remittance industry, targeting corridors like Mexico
where foreign remittance fuels economies. Blockchain's libertarian principles
have the potential to change lives in the third world, replacing corrupt
infrastructure with trust-based solutions. While this technology can be used to
significantly improve lives, it has a wealth of destructive applications.
Bitcoin's blockchain and nefarious websites like the Silk Road have fueled an
underground market of drugs, money laundering, and terrorism, complicating
digital currency legislation. The negative environmental effects of
cryptocurrency may also contribute significantly to global climate change.
Negatives aside, cryptocurrency still proves to be a valuable commodity in
technological development.
