Oct 22, 2019 - This case study looks at how blockchain technology could help us clean up our vital ocean ecosystems, from shorelines and coral reefs to Arctic sea ice platforms. It spotlights the work of Ocean Marine Blockchain Solutions, in collaboration with the Girguis Lab at Harvard University and the Jamaican agency Alligator Head Foundation. Together they’re creating a digital and economic data framework that is reframing the situation from an environmental problem to an economic opportunity, which may succeed in driving a much-needed sea change.

Dec 11, 2019 - This case study covers the challenges facing the cobalt industry and explains how blockchain technology can help by tracking the chain of custody, exposing unethical practices, and improving governance across the cobalt supply chain. The blockchain start-up Circulor combines rigorous processes with smart technology to implement ethical sourcing solutions.

Jan 30, 2018 - This project illustrates different approaches to integrating blockchain into the retail environment. It compares the strategies of two online retailers, Overstock and Newegg, both of which accept cryptocurrency as payment for online purchases. Because of the challenges of implementing crypto within their legacy payment gateways, both formed strategic partnerships with crypto exchanges and payment services, BitPay, Coinbase, and Shapeshift.

Aug 31, 2019 - This project surveys patents issued globally in the blockchain space, compares them to the nature and volume of patents in the Internet space, and puts them into categories of innovation. The author walks through a careful analysis of the claims of issued patents, for companies to decide whether to avoid such patents or to design around their claims. He identifies deficiencies in the patent office review of prior art, which—when rectified—could render a patent invalid. Finally, he discusses strategic uses of patent offices and the federal court system in the defense of or dispute over an issued patent.

Jan 29, 2018 - This research examines the basics of US patent law and its application to blockchain technologies, including the impact of Alice Corp. v. CLS Bank International decision. The author compares the benefits and the drawbacks of different patent strategies, such as voluntary communal coordination, and provides recommendations for future innovation and regulation so that the community can access foundational blockchain patents while the inventors and those who invested in the essential patents receive fair compensation.

Nov 30, 2017 - This project discusses how national customs agencies and international organizations can use blockchain to expedite people, money, and things securely across borders by land, sea, air, or Internet. It showcases US Customs and Border Protection’s efforts as part of the US Department of Homeland Security to drive the global development of blockchain-based governance that will enhance the safety and security of global trade and tourism.