Blockchain-Enabled and Paperless Identity Systems for Environmental Sustainability

The rapid rise of adoption of digital identity presents a transformative opportunity to eliminate resource-intensive physical identity systems, no longer requiring printed cards, plastic credentials, or in-person office visits, thereby substantially reducing carbon footprints. This paper introduces a comprehensive Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) model built upon Hyperledger Indy, enabling end users to securely store and manage their identities directly on personal devices. We explore two different enrollment methods: QR code-based digital credential issuance and NFC-powered chip-based identity verification, further enhanced through zero-knowledge proofs and verifiable credential protocols. The ecological advantages are emphasized through the eradication of physical identity artifacts and associated administrative processes, advancing the field of green digital technologies in support of ecological preservation and sustainable identity infrastructures.