Despite the crypto market's downturn, new platforms are still making big moves and adding value to the Web3 scene. STEPN adds value with its innovative app that tracks a user's physical activity and helps users earn rewards. The [STEPN app](https://stepn.com/) and community are powered by the Green Metaverse token, which serves as its governance token.

The platform launched in late 2021, and its user base skyrocketed in the first few months of 2022. As a result, its governance token, GMT, grew in value and became a coin worth purchasing for crypto traders looking for promising projects. Let's review the STEPN ecosystem and how to get the Green Metaverse token.

## The lifestyle app

STEPN aims to connect millions to a healthier lifestyle, aid in the fight against climate change, and connect the public to Web 3.0 via built-in [Game-Fi ](/news/article/what-is-gamefi) and Social-Fi elements. The platform was developed on the Solana blockchain by Jerry Huang and Yawn Rong, who designed it as a "[move-to-earn](/news/article/blockchain-use-cases)" app and finished fourth out of more than 500 applications at the [Solana Ignition Hackathon](https://solana.com/news/solana-ignition-hackathon-winners).

The app's distinct value is "incentivisation", which distinguishes it from other fitness platforms. Users are motivated to exercise and participate in physical activities because they will be rewarded for doing so.

The first step to using the platform is purchasing NFT sneakers from its marketplace. Users are expected to buy a sneaker appropriate for one of four types of activity. It's also worth noting that STEPN tokens are earned when a user's speed falls within the range of the activity they choose. That is, the NFT sneaker for running will not earn STEPN tokens if used to walk.

Users will first receive the game's utility token, the Green Satoshi token (GST). Once their sneakers reach level 30, they will be able to earn the GMT governance token.

## What is the Green Metaverse token?

The Green Metaverse token powers the STEPN ecosystem as the governance token. Users begin by earning GST, which can be used to level up sneakers, open mystery boxes, and upgrade rewards.

GMT will allow users to advance to new levels, increase GST earnings, and vote on business decisions that directly affect STEPN's future. GMT has a fixed supply of 6 billion coins, with only 10% in circulation. It should be noted that approximately one-third of Green Metaverse tokens can be obtained through "move-to-earn" rewards.

If you want to buy GMT, you can do so on OKX, Bybit, CoinTiger, and Binance. Green Metaverse tokens can also be purchased with Bitcoin or Ethereum. Users can also trade GMT by signing up for STEPN and reaching the app's set milestone.

Through its move-to-earn model, the STEPN app aims to promote a healthier and more environmentally friendly way of life. Because of the incentivization concept, GMT has become a solid investment in the eyes of crypto investors.

green image of metaverse with stepn token logo in centre

Green Metaverse token: A guide to STEPN

The importance of a sustainable future cannot be overstated.

As society evolves, more conscious efforts toward sustainability are being made, with the rise of environmental, social, and governance initiatives by leading corporations worldwide. How can features of blockchain technology support this?

According to a recent statistic, the G20 countries will raise more than [$97 trillion](https://www.g20-insights.org/policy_briefs/fostering-sustainable-global-growth-green-finance-role-g20/) over the next decade and a half to accelerate sustainability efforts. Raising awareness of global social and economic inequality, as well as developing effective governance frameworks to address these issues, is critical. 

Private investments in climate-related projects are increasing, with one [hedge fund](https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottcarpenter/2020/07/04/hedge-fund-marshall-wace-will-bet-on-esg-stocks-with-new-1-billion-fund/?sh=520d75dc97de) betting $1 billion on ESG stocks in 2020.

One thing to remember is that sustainable development necessitates collaboration with the finance sector. With blockchain technology emerging as the future, decentralized finance will also play a role in constructing a sustainable future. How can features of blockchain technology support sustainability efforts? This article answers that and how the tech can solve various pain points associated with ESG initiatives.

## What is blockchain technology?

[According to Amazon](https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/blockchain/#:~:text=Blockchain%20technology%20is%20an%20advanced,linked%20together%20in%20a%20chain.), blockchain technology is an advanced database mechanism that allows for the openness and transparency of transactions within a business network. 

[Blockchain](/news/article/what-is-blockchain) technology uses a distributed ledger system, which allows a group of participants to reach an agreement without needing a third party. Blockchain technology is considered the new era of digital innovation because it is the basis of the next generation of the internet, Web3, and replaces traditional finance with decentralized finance. 

## Features include:

### Immutability

Immutability means that transactions, once registered on the blockchain, cannot be altered and is permanent. This is an essential feature of blockchain technology that enforces transparency and trust.

### Decentralization

Decentralization in blockchain involves distributing governing authority amongst different participants rather than a central entity. This promotes fairness and enhances the security of the blockchain. It is another vital feature that enables trust, openness, and transparency.

### Consensus

Blockchain technology relies on several consensus mechanisms to maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of stored data. Consensus algorithms establish rules about consent for recording transactions.

How can features of blockchain support sustainability efforts?
Blockchain technology, among other things, can be a valuable tool in mitigating environmental issues such as climate change and carbon emissions. There are various ways in which blockchain technology can play an important role in boosting sustainability initiatives, especially ESG, such as:

### Supply Chain: 

Blockchain tech can improve supply chain traceability. 

Blockchain technology is a distributed ledger technology that can protect critical company data from attack because data is stored in a decentralized manner. This has a wide range of applications in the food industry. Demand for ethically sourced products has grown, particularly in the food industry. 

Users can use blockchain technology to trace these products' supply chains and determine whether they are safe to consume. As a result, blockchain enhances the environment for suppliers, transporters, distributors, and retailers by making supply chains more efficient.

### Combating Climate Change:

With blockchain technology, renewable energy can be expanded, reducing carbon emissions. Companies can offset their carbon footprint using blockchain by investing in environmentally sustainable projects. Crypto donations are now being accepted by the Carbon Offsets to Alleviate Poverty organization.

### Renewable Energy:

Using blockchain to manage renewable energy production is an excellent way to increase efficiency and reduce costs. The blockchain system promotes collaboration between utility companies and customers, and blockchain technology improves distributed energy production. The market can allocate production and use alternative types of energy.

## Final Thoughts

How can features of blockchain technology support sustainability efforts? These examples are just a few of the many ways the tech can help. With the incorporation of blockchain technology in ESG initiatives, more sustainable infrastructure can be put in place, improving the overall social outcomes of ESG initiatives. Furthermore, blockchain tech can be used to enhance governance frameworks and sustain value by providing transparency and verification processes. 

Blockchain technology is expected to become a mainstay in ESG initiatives, spawning more creative applications due to this integration.


yellow image of eco friendly hand holding leaves

How Can Features of Blockchain Support Sustainability Efforts? 

According to a South Korean intelligence agency statement, state-backed North Korea hackers have stolen an estimated $1.2 billion in crypto assets over the last five years.

Analysts and experts have confirmed that North Korea is supporting a number of fraudulent activities and cybercrimes in order to gain access to foreign currency to help its failing economy, which has been harmed by [UN sanctions](https://www.armscontrol.org/factsheets/UN-Security-Council-Resolutions-on-North-Korea) and the aftereffects of COVID-19.

South Korea's National Intelligence Service confirmed that North Korean hackers are among the best at stealing crypto assets, owing to the country's focus on cybercrime as an alternative way to aid its failing economy since the height of United Nations economic sanctions in 2017.

In 2017, the United Nations imposed harsh sanctions on North Korean exports such as textiles and coal. The UN, along with its member states, repatriates North Korean workers abroad. The country's economy was unable to withstand harsh sanctions and the aftermath of the COVID pandemic.

According to South Korea's National Intelligence Service, North Korea crypto hackers are responsible for hacking $1.2 billion in crypto assets in the last five years, with more than $626 million in 2022 alone. It was also confirmed that approximately $78 million of the stolen funds originated in [South Korea](/news/article/south-korea-crypto).

## More attacks expected

According to intelligence obtained by the South Korean Government, North Korean hackers will most likely undertake additional cyberattacks this year to gain access to South Korean technologies and private information on national security and weaponry.

Official state diplomats from South Korea, the United States, and Japan joined forces earlier this month to intensify efforts to combat the cybercrime carried out by North Korea. 

According to UN experts, the country will step up its efforts to steal hundreds of millions of dollars from crypto platforms and other financial institutions.

Despite the fact that North Korea's economic situation remains dire, the government conducted a record number of missile tests in 2022. Experts and analysts believe it has a way to gain leverage and improve its weaponry to negotiate with world powers.


red image of hacker with cryptocurrency and North Korean statues falling

North Korea Crypto Hacks Worth $1.2 Billion 

Despite the downturn of the cryptocurrency market, there are still remarkable innovations. A recent one has come to light in a [blog post](https://usa.visa.com/solutions/crypto/auto-payments-for-self-custodial-wallets.html) written by Visa crypto thought leaders. In the blog post, they outlined a proposal for a Visa crypto wallet powered by the Ethereum blockchain for Web3 auto payments.

Users could automatically pay for transactions without signing off on each one individually.

This proposed solution was based on a February internal hackathon among Visa employees aimed at solving the problem of how an Ether owner can pay bills with cryptocurrency in the future without an internet connection. 

The proposal for the Visa crypto wallet comes at a much-needed time due to the loss of investor's confidence in cryptocurrency caused by situations including the downfall of [Luna](/news/article/terra-luna-collapse) and, more recently, [FTX](/news/article/ftx-bankrupt-who-to-blame), the second biggest exchange leading to losses worth billions of dollars in customer funds. The crypto wallet proposed by Visa would use the "Account Abstraction" process proposed by Vitalik Buterin, the founder of Ethereum, in 2015.

## How does account abstraction fit into Visa's vision?

[Account abstraction](https://eips.ethereum.org/EIPS/eip-2938) refers to converting a smart contract into a wallet, also known as "delegable wallets". It was formalized in 2017 as an Ethereum improvement proposal (EIP-86). To realize the concept of an AA-based self-custody wallet or delegable account, the Visa team proposes that user accounts function like smart contracts. This would allow people to schedule transactions automatically and without the involvement of a central entity.

"This application could allow a user to set up a programmable payment instruction that can push funds automatically from one self-custodial wallet account to another at recurring intervals, without requiring the user's active participation each time," the blog post said.

The team has begun work on the Visa crypto wallet, claiming it has successfully created delegable accounts on a private chain using Starknet. This Layer 2 scaling solution supports the account abstraction concept.



Visa Crypto Wallet Plans Outlined

Looking for the top Bitcoin wallet UK options? This article could help.

If you are new to cryptocurrency and intend to purchase or mine cryptocurrency in the UK, selecting the appropriate wallet to store your virtual assets is critical. It makes investing in cryptocurrency easier and more convenient because you just need to manage your digital assets.
A Bitcoin or cryptocurrency wallet would help protect your virtual assets and keep hackers at bay.

Now that you understand the scope of a Bitcoin wallet, you will agree that not just any crypto wallet should handle such a sensitive task. Extensive research is required to find one that meets your needs.

When it comes ti Bitcoin wallet UK offerings, this article can assist you with that task. Ive done my research and compiled a list of Bitcoin wallet UK options that may be the quick route you're looking for to learn about the best available.

## Top 4 Bitcoin wallets UK

### Binance

[Binance](https://www.binance.com/en) offers a safe and secure way to store your cryptocurrencies in only one wallet. It is convenient to keep multiple digital assets in one place on the Binance platform. The mobile App is user-friendly and retains this quality on Android and IOS, providing a unique user experience. 

Binance also provides other crypto-related services such as peer-to-peer trading, buying bitcoin with cards and deposits, etc.

It should be noted that Binance supports over a million assets across 53 blockchains. Because of its range, you can store all of your cryptocurrency in only one wallet. Staking is one of the digital wallet's unique characteristics, similar to collecting interest while keeping your money in your wallet. Staking your coins also grants you the ability to participate in token governance and vote on important business decisions.

The Binance wallet also makes it simpler to store your NFTs and digital collectibles without worrying about security.

#### The Pros

•	Fast exchange of digital assets.

•	Supports over a million crypto assets.

•	Supports different languages.

•	Easy to set up.

•	Easy to deposit with UK accounts and cards.

#### The Cons

•	A set fee for transaction costs is applied to each withdrawal.

### Coinbase

[Coinbase](https://www.coinbase.com/) excels at user experience and is tailored to the needs of various users in the UK. Coinbase provides accessibility and helps new users navigate the crypto world. Coinbase protects your virtual assets with cutting-edge security technologies. The Coinbase platform provides flexible access to your wallet by providing both a web and a mobile wallet, which helps position it as a reliable platform.

The Coinbase platform is designed to be completely decentralized. That means it is a self-custody wallet in which users can choose to have complete control over their Bitcoin and crypto assets. Coinbase offers users the necessary software and security to store their cryptocurrency. 

Although, it is the user's responsibility to keep their password and private keys secure.
The Coinbase platform also includes staking, lending, and Yield Farming features.

#### The Pros

•	Offers both mobile and web-based wallets.

•	Offers the opportunity to earn more crypto through its numerous features.

•	Top-notch user experience.

•	Crypto tutorials and information to broaden users' knowledge.

#### The Cons

•	The connected wallet is always linked to the internet.

### Huobi

[Huobi](https://www.huobi.com/) provides a wide range of crypto services and is an excellent place to begin your cryptocurrency journey. Huobi functions similarly to a "social" cryptocurrency platform, connecting users with similar interests. This allows users to share and collect valuable crypto community tips across multiple social media platforms.

The Huobi platform gives users complete control and it doesn't require access to private keys. Your wallet keys are saved locally on the device, and they have provided multiple wallet backup options in case users lose access to their wallets.

The Huobi Cloud wallet assumes responsibility for securing private keys, as new users may need to be more familiar with this and may misplace them. The Cloud wallet grants access to various DeFi projects with a single click.

#### The Pros

•	Cutting-edge security technology.

•	Multiple wallets.

•	Social experience with other users.

#### The Cons

•	No web-based version. 

### eToro

The [eToro](https://www.etoro.com/) platform is reliable for users who want to begin crypto trading and investing. The wallet allows you to trade cryptocurrency without worrying about the safety of your funds. CySEC, the SEC, and the FCA in the UK regulate the crypto platform. With its vast network of resources, the wallet enables crypto traders to earn and gain trading experience.

eToro ensures that your deposits are safe and secure. It is worth noting that all eToro transactions are communicated using SSL technology, ensuring your personal information security. To help prevent fraud, your eToro wallet can only be funded by your own UK bank card or account; the platform does not allow deposits through another user's account.

Users can open a free demo account with the eToro wallet to avoid risking their funds immediately. This demo account also assists in providing insights into how the platform operates.
Deposits up to $250,000 are covered by insurance, promoting system stability and transparency.

#### The Pros

•	Amazing features for crypto trading.

•	Extensive library of educational resources available.

•	Cutting-edge security systems.

•	Wide range of cryptocurrencies accepted.

#### The Cons

•	More experienced users may find it a little less impressive.

## Conclusion

Hopefully, this guide to Bitcoin wallet UK options available has been helpful. Since Bitcoin’s emergence more than a decade ago, cryptocurrencies have consistently delivered faster and easier transactions. With improved security and transparency, the sector will continue to grow.

If you are just beginning your crypto journey in the UK and want to learn more about crypto features, you can read [Guide to Crypto Lending, Staking, and HODLing](/news/article/crypto-lending). Only after you've found an utterly secure Bitcoin wallet UK option for your assets should you consider how to buy and grow your portfolio.

So, go ahead and take the first step toward discovering the potential of the cryptocurrency world.


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