Most newer cryptos are built on proof of stake. So your criticism is mainly aimed at Btc.
There are more and less sucky ways to produce energy, but let's be clear: all of them suck to some degree. There is no type of energy production where the mere act of producing that energy is a net positive.
Then the argument turns to whether or not the gains from proof of wasted energy-type systems outweigh the drawbacks of producing the required energy -- even if that energy is produced in the least sucky way. I'm firmly in the no camp.