In collaboration with a "Big Four" accounting firm and Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, the World Economic Forum (WEF) recently issued a press release reporting on 65 blockchain use cases for solving the world's "most pressing" environmental challenges. The nonprofit organization, built on shaping policy for the public good, stated its belief that blockchain will advance environmental protection efforts by offering new financing models for environmental outcomes, realizing nonfinancial assets (such as natural capital), and enabling clean, decentralized and efficient systems. The WEF identified eight categories of blockchain use cases that it deems "game changers" for environmental protection, among them a "see-through" supply chain that promotes transparency and traceability.
Several new pilots also took flight this week focusing on digital identity. Blokusign has developed an app for Gmail that allows users to easily maintain, manage and authenticate documents digitally signed by them without any reliance on third parties. Gemalto, a digital security leader, has partnered with R3, using its Corda platform, to create a blockchain-powered mobile app to protect digital identifiers. Users download the app, control personal data shared therein and then manage information shared with service providers via a consent function.
Poland's largest bank has also adopted a blockchain-backed system for managing bank records for nearly 5 million of its account holders. In this new initiative, bank documents will utilize a 64-character hash code to permit users to easily verify the documents' authenticity and to create a decentralized log of activity − even after accounts are closed. And in Austin, Texas, the city and local medical service providers have teamed up to create a blockchain-powered ID system to track services provided to those without conventional forms of identification, such as homeless persons. The pilot links digital copies of records to cellphone numbers and email addresses, which permits a traceable record for those served in the community that could not be established through the paper ID that many lack.
In other developments, South Korea recently announced a blockchain initiative for its customs authority, built on Nexledger. A memorandum of understanding that details the new customs platform includes the signatures of 48 domestic entities and public agencies that look to blockchain technology to curtail forgery and increase export efficiency. Meanwhile, across the Pacific, Oregon Blockchain Venture Studio has launched a campaign to make Oregon the center of the blockchain universe. The incubator-like program, with the backing of at least two U.S.-based multinational corporations and support from the state of Oregon, hopes to accomplish this goal by offering investment capital to promising blockchain startups if they agree to set up shop in the Beaver State.
To read more about this week's articles on enterprise blockchain use cases, see the following:
- World Economic Forum Outlines Over 65 Blockchain Use Cases for Environmental Protection
- World Economic Forum: Building Block(chain)s for a Better Planet
- Alpha Release of Blokusign, digital signatures on blockchain; Sign Up for the Waiting List
- Gemalto and R3 pilot blockchain technology to put users in control of their Digital ID
- Poland's Top Bank to Launch Blockchain Platform for Document Management Within 'Days'
- Korea Taps Samsung's Blockchain Tech to Fight Customs Fraud
- Nike, Intel, R/GA part of new program to put Oregon at center of blockchain industry
- Austin Looks to Blockchain-Powered ID Management
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