Crypto Altruists: Real-World Stories of Social & Environmental Impact with Web3

Norbert Vadas, Head of Product at ZkCloud, has a rich background working with UNICEF and FAO before diving into Web3. He discusses how Zero-Knowledge (ZK) proving is transforming blockchain scalability and privacy, paving the way for a fairer internet. Norbert emphasizes the humanitarian applications of ZK proofs, from identity verification to decentralized voting. He also shares insights on the economic potential within Web3 and the future of decentralized cloud computing in enhancing security and sustainability.

In episode 193, we’re excited to welcome Sunny Lu, Founder of Vechain, a pioneering blockchain ecosystem that has been demonstrating the power of crypto to drive sustainability efforts since 2015.In this episode, you will learn:How blockchain can eliminate greenwashing and build trust in ESG & environmental initiatives.How Web3 empowers individuals, organizations, and businesses to create real world climate impact through VeBetterDAO.Lessons from Sunny Lu’s journey building a multi-billion-dollar, sustainability-focused cryptocurrency ecosystem.--Key Takeaways--Transforming Small Actions into Collective Impact with Blockchain: Web3 enables the digitization of positive actions, bringing them onchain to showcase collective impact. This creates a powerful marginal effect, where even small individual efforts contribute to a larger, verifiable movement toward sustainability.Fixing the Trust Deficit in Sustainability with Web3: A major issue in ESG initiatives is the lack of trust. Blockchain solves this by ensuring transparency—bringing sustainability data onchain, making it accessible, verifiable, and resistant to greenwashing.Ignore the Noise - Stay True to Your Vision: Web3’s fast-moving nature is both inspiring and overwhelming. Many founders get caught up chasing trends instead of sticking to their mission and making sure they have a solid product. Success comes from staying focused on your long-term vision, and user-growth, rather than jumping from fad to fad.2025 - The Year of Enterprise Adoption in Web3: Sunny predicts 2025 will be a breakout year for enterprise blockchain adoption. Expect to see more major partnerships between corporations and Web3 projects, as well as increased use of crypto rails for ESG initiatives and sustainability efforts.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-193-vechain-from-greenwashing-to-proof-tokenizing-esg-and-real-world-impact-with-blockchainThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org.

In episode 192, we’re excited to welcome Sandra Uwantege Hart, Humanitarian Lab Lead at Mercy Corps Ventures, to explore how blockchain, AI, and innovative funding models are helping to get aid to the right people—before disaster strikes.In this episode, you'll learnWhy the humanitarian aid sector is due for a fundamental shift, and how Anticipatory Action is flipping the script on disaster response.How blockchain and Web3 technology are transforming the speed, transparency, and efficiency of aid delivery.The role of Mercy Corps Ventures' Anticipatory Action Accelerator in funding groundbreaking solutions to build climate resilient communities.--Key Takeaways--Traditional humanitarian aid is reactive and inefficient – Most aid is deployed after disasters strike, leading to delays, high costs, and logistical challenges. A system designed around rapid response often fails to prevent suffering before it happens.Anticipatory Action + Web3 = Gamechanger – By using predictive analytics, data oracles, smart contracts, and decentralized funding, anticipatory action enables aid to be pre-positioned and deployed before disasters occur. Blockchain enhances efficiency, transparency, and trust in these life-saving interventions.The biggest barrier is mindset, not technology – Despite the clear benefits, anticipatory action struggles with adoption due to its complexity and the global tendency to prioritize reaction over prevention. Web3 can shift this dynamic by creating automated, transparent funding models that incentivize proactive aid.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-192-mercy-corps-ventures-how-web3-and-ai-are-transforming-humanitarian-aid-with-anticipatory-actionThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org.

In this engaging discussion, Elizabeth Kukka, CEO of Purpose for Profit, dives into the transformative power of tokenized lending aimed at affordable housing and ESG initiatives. She highlights how blockchain enhances transparency, enabling real-time tracking of funds and rebuilding trust in investment. Elizabeth shares her journey from tech to crypto, shedding light on the potential of Web3 to democratize impact investing. Listeners will also learn about the balance between community impact and investor returns in modern investment strategies.

For the fifth and final episode of the Trailblazers of Octant mini-series, we’re excited to welcome Jon Ruth of Climate Coordination Network and James Kiernan of Octant, to explore the vision, mechanics, and impact of the Epoch 7 Climate Round.In this episode, we explore:Why Web3 public goods funding and coordination mechanisms are gamechangers for climate action.How Octant and Climate Coordination Network are launching the first-ever themed Epoch funding round, with a focus on climate solutions.How you—whether as a donor, builder, or advocate—can join this exciting movement and help scale real world impact.Trailblazers of Octant is a five-part miniseries, where we focus on the rapidly growing public goods funding movement in the Octant Ecosystem, and highlight the projects and builders who have brought this movement to life.--Key Takeaways--Beyond Funding: Building Long-Term Support for Climate Solutions - Octant Epoch 7 isn’t just about funding—it’s about setting grantees up for long-term success. This round introduces additional support  to help projects develop key skills, build sustainable funding models, and grow their impact beyond the initial grant.Onboarding Web2 Orgs to Web3 Climate Finance - A major goal for Epoch 7 is onboarding more Web2 projects, with a target of at least 30% of grantees coming from outside Web3. Case studies like Tor’s participation in Octant since Epoch 1 highlight the potential for impact, and showcasing success stories will be key in bringing more traditional organizations into the space.Get involved in Epoch 7 - Applications for Octant Epoch 7 are open until February 13th, offering climate projects the opportunity to receive funding and support. Community members can also participate by staking $GLM and donating to projects, helping to shape the future of Web3-powered climate action.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-trailblazers-of-octant-episode-5-octant-ccn-accelerating-climate-action-with-web3-funding-and-coordination-mechanismsThank you to Octant for their support in bringing this series to life! We are honored to have received a 2.5 ETH grant through the Octant Community Fund!--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org.

In episode 190, we bring together top advice from 10 past guests from across diverse industries including billion-dollar founders, grassroots community leaders, and pioneers on what it really takes to build in Web3.We explore:How Web3 builders stay focused and resilient in an industry that moves at lightning speed.The biggest lessons on community, leadership, and team-building from top Web3 founders.Key insights on navigating regulatory uncertainty, scaling projects, and building sustainable impact.We hear fromCalanthia Mei, Co-Founder of MasaAly Madhavji, Managing Partner at Blockchain Founders FundProfessor Tonya Evans – Web3 Author, Lawyer, and EducatorJan (Puncar) Brezina, Co-Author of How to DAODr. Friederike Ernst, Co-Founder of Gnosis and Gnosis PayAfo, Steward at Greenpill Dev Guild James Kiernan, Head of Community at OctantJuan Carlos Bell, Project Lead at Gravity DAOJ.D. Seraphine, Founder and CEO of RaiinmakerJimi Cohen, Founder of Treegens and World Record Tree Planter--Key Takeaways--Stay Agile and Focused: Web3 moves fast, and successful founders must stay flexible, prioritize what truly matters, and avoid reinventing the wheel on things that don’t need innovation. Focus on your mission, iterate quickly, and be prepared for market shifts.Community is Everything: A strong community is the backbone of any Web3 project. Engaging actively, building transparent feedback loops, and including your community in decision-making fosters long-term support, trust, and sustainability.Build for the Long Term: Whether it's regulatory uncertainty, bear markets, or rapid technological changes, successful founders focus on resilience. The best builders stay committed through highs and lows, ensuring their vision outlasts short-term cycles.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-190-web3-founders-playbook-expert-advice-from-top-crypto-innovatorsThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruisn.org

For episode four of the Trailblazers of Octant mini-series, we’re excited to welcome Afo, Coi, and Matt from the Greenpill Dev Guild, a pioneering community of builders supporting the regen movement with tools, workshops, and collaborative projects that drive meaningful change.In this episode, we explore:How Greenpill Dev Guild is empowering regenerative movements with innovative Web3 tools and funding mechanisms.The transformative role of crypto in impact measurement, public goods funding, and community coordination.Why Octant’s public goods funding model is a gamechanger for public goods communities like Greenpill Dev Guild--Key Takeaways--Web3 Enables Pluralism and Community Access - Web3 technology fosters pluralism and interoperability, especially at the data level, empowering communities to take action. Projects like Good Greens showcase this by supporting local farmers with accessible tools and decentralized solutions, demonstrating how blockchain can create meaningful, grassroots impact.Gamifying Public Goods Funding - Public goods funding should be engaging and fun. By incorporating gamification, speculative elements, and robust community feedback mechanisms, funding models can drive higher participation while ensuring sustainability for projects. Simplifying the user experience is essential to broaden access and impact. Octant has done a great job experimenting in this area to create a positive user experience.Collaboration and Interoperability Are the Future - Cross-ecosystem collaboration, universal standards, and data-level interoperability are vital for scaling public goods funding. These elements ensure that resources are efficiently allocated across diverse ecosystems, paving the way for a more coordinated and impactful regen movement.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-trailblazers-of-octant-episode-4-greenpill-dev-guild-scaling-the-regen-movement-with-web3-coordinationThank you to Octant for their support in bringing this series to life! We are honored to have received a 2.5 ETH grant through the Octant Community Fund!--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org

In episode 189, we’re excited to welcome welcome Jan (Puncar) Brezina, legendary DAO builder and co-author of How to DAO. With a track record that includes contributions to groundbreaking DAOs like Gitcoin, MakerDAO, and Bankless DAO, Puncar has been at the forefront of innovation into decentralized communities.In this episode, we explore:How DAOs are revolutionizing the way we organize and collaborate online, with practical insights from one of the leading voices in the space.Tangible strategies for implementing decentralized governance in grassroots and impact organizations.Common pitfalls for DAOs and how to build sustainable, engaged communities.Why you should get your hands on a copy of How to DAO today!--Key Takeaways--Building a DAO Learning Community: How to DAO is more than just a book—it's a community-driven initiative offering courses, resources, and support for DAO builders. It’s a gateway for people at all levels to the world of DAOs.Empowering Impact Organizations through DAOs: For nonprofits and impact organizations, DAOs present opportunities to enhance transparency, foster community buy-in, and connect with international networks using Web3 infrastructure. They also provide a pathway to sovereignty and independence, breaking away from traditional funding constraints.Start Simple and Stay Agile: Early-stage DAOs should focus on simplicity. Overcomplicating governance structures or tokenomics can slow progress. Instead, focus on innovation and flexibility, allowing the structure to evolve naturally as the organization grows.MakerDAO: A Blueprint for DAO Success: MakerDAO, now operating as Sky, exemplifies what a successful DAO can achieve. Its commitment to community ownership, strong tokenomics, and continuous innovation has allowed it to scale while maintaining its decentralized ethos.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-189-how-to-dao-practical-strategies-for-building-high-impact-web3-communitiesThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org

In episode 188, we’re excited to welcome Aly Madhavji, Managing Partner at Blockchain Founders Fund and a celebrated "Blockchain 100" Global Leader. Aly has been instrumental in supporting high-growth crypto startups worldwide, and has collaborated with institutions like the United Nations and INSEAD to leverage emerging technologies for global challenges.We explore:Some of the common traits shared by the most successful Web3 founders and how they overcome challenges in scaling and navigating market uncertainty,The biggest pitfalls for early-stage Web3 startups and actionable advice for avoiding them, andInsights into blockchain’s real-world impact from groundbreaking projects supported by Blockchain Founders Fund, and how you could become their next success story.--Key Takeaways--Agility and Iteration Are Key to Success in Web3: In a fast-moving space like Web3, staying agile and open to iteration is crucial. Build real feedback loops with your community, iterate quickly, and embrace adaptability to move forward in a competitive environment.Building Community Requires Authenticity and Engagement: There are no shortcuts to creating a strong community. The foundation is a great project, but active communication and including your community in the journey fosters trust and buy-in. Value their feedback and include them as true stakeholders.Focus on Milestones and Control What You Can: Set clear, achievable milestones without getting lost in unnecessary details. Recognize what you can control—like your innovation and execution—and what you can’t, such as regulations or market conditions. Bear markets are a golden opportunity to build with less distraction.Exciting Trends to Watch in Web3 for 2025: Aly highlights Web3 tooling, DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks), and crypto entertainment apps as key areas of growth.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-188-blockchain-founders-fund-building-in-web3-lessons-from-supporting-180-crypto-startupsThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruis

In episode 187, we’re excited to welcome Dr. Viroshan Naicker, Co-Founder of Earthstream, an innovative startup that uses bioacoustics and sensor systems, powered by AI and blockchain, to "Listen to the Earth." Dr. Viroshan's journey spans blockchain innovation, tokenomics research, and climate tech, so he has so much wisdom to drop.We explore:How bioacoustics and blockchain are revolutionizing biodiversity monitoring and rewilding.The role of AI and IoT sensors in creating real-time, actionable insights for regenerating ecosystems.How Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) and Regenerative Finance (ReFi) provide new tools to help build a healthier planet.--Key Takeaways--Moving Beyond Carbon: Biodiversity as the New KPI - The shift from carbon as the primary key performance indicator to biodiversity offers a more comprehensive and holistic approach to measuring nature’s health, essential for effective rewilding and conservation efforts.Bioacoustics: Listening to the Earth - Bioacoustics has emerged as a powerful tool for measuring biodiversity by analyzing natural soundscapes. This innovative method enables real-time monitoring of ecosystem health, offering unprecedented insights into the state of nature.AI & Blockchain: Transforming Biodiversity Monitoring - AI and blockchain technologies power cutting-edge sensors capable of collecting diverse data—GPS, local weather, and acoustics. By storing this data on-chain and utilizing AI to analyze sounds, Earthstream is creating a transparent and efficient system to support ecosystem restoration.Web3: Financing Conservation and Regeneration - Web3 introduces innovative financing mechanisms to allocate resources to conservation and regeneration projects, shifting economies from solely value extraction to value preservation and restoration.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruists-episode-187-earthstream-giving-nature-a-voice-with-bioacoustics-blockchain-and-artificial-intelligenceThank you to PIPE gDAO for sponsoring the Crypto Altruism podcast!PIPE gDAO is leveraging blockchain for their University Real World Asset IP Launchpad that helps bring groundbreaking ideas from lab to market. By joining the Pipe Associate Network (aka PAN), associates can create a profile highlighting their skills, be notified of opportunities, and then contribute fractional work to pre-IPO companies in return for equity and tokens.--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER--While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More info at cryptoaltruism.org