The Merge refers to Ethereum’s transition from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake – two distinct techniques of confirming blockchain transactions. If you’re not engaged in the area of cryptography, the technical distinctions between the two ways may be obscure. The significant difference, though, is that the new proof-of-stake technique will consume considerably less energy – 99.95% less, according to the Ethereum Foundation’s estimations. Given popular criticism of cryptocurrencies as a massive waste of electricity that provides no added use to the world, this is a significant development.
