Hydrogen is a green fuel despite small warming effect from pipe leaks

Environment

In the future, some industrial processes may be powered by hydrogen instead of fossil fuels. If the hydrogen leaks into the atmosphere before it is burned it can contribute to climate change – but not much

By James Dinneen

Hydrogen gas leaking from pipelines can contribute a small amount to climate change

fotokaleinar/Shutterstock

Hydrogen leaked into the atmosphere from pipes or storage tanks indirectly acts as a greenhouse gas, but there are still significant climate benefits to be had if we switch from burning fossil fuels to burning clean hydrogen.

When burned, hydrogen emits only water vapour and heat. If produced with clean energy, hydrogen fuel offers a carbon-free way to power processes that are difficult to run on electricity, such as steel-making. As such, it is seen as an…

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 28th October 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account

More from New Scientist

Explore the latest news, articles and features

Read More

Related posts

SIX and Chainlink Take €2 Trillion in Swiss and Spanish Equities Data Onchain

Free 16-Week Mentorship Programme with Soho House Opens Applications for Brighton’s Working-Class Creatives

S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Applications Now Open