According to Buterin, airdrops represent a compelling initial use case for these emerging technologies.
They align closely with the goals of developing robust blockchain identity and credentialing systems on the blockchain.
Buterin: Airdrops Key for Testing Blockchain Identity Systems
Buterin outlined several objectives for airdrops that closely match the aims of identity and credential frameworks. He mentioned that:
- Airdrops aim to distribute tokens to genuine community members rather than random individuals who might immediately sell them.
- They seek to reward those who have made meaningful contributions to a project, recognizing and incentivizing their efforts.
- Airdrops strive to be reasonably egalitarian, although some level of disparity is acceptable.
- They aim to resist adversarial farming, where users exploit the system to gain unfair advantages.
Source: X
These goals mirror the objectives of identity and credential frameworks, which are designed to ensure fair distribution, authenticate contributions, and prevent abuse. He also mentioned that for developers working on these frameworks, using token issuance through airdrops as a test case provides a valuable opportunity to refine their systems in a real-world, adversarial environment.
More About Airdrops & Web3 Identity
Buterin also noted that giving away tokens for free is not the only viable method. Another approach is to implement discounted sales, where individuals can purchase tokens at a reduced price based on their verified degree of membership or contribution. This strategy helps distribute token supply more widely and rewards non-financial contributors while ensuring that buyers have a stake in the system. Techniques used for airdrops, such as discounted sales, serve to achieve similar goals of fairness and incentive alignment. 
Source: X
Additionally, Buterin suggested alternative methods like subsidizing savings rates for smaller accounts as a potential substitute for universal basic income (UBI). This concept is akin to Singapore’s Central Provident Fund (CPF), which provides a form of savings subsidy to its members.
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