Hydrogen could become a real climate problem
A recent study suggests that under certain circumstances, hydrogen could become a real climate killer. Under no circumstances should the gas escape into the atmosphere. Otherwise it may cause more damage than CO2.
Especially in times of the current energy crisis, hydrogen is increasingly developing as a beacon of hope. Experts trade the gas as a future fuel for vehicles and airplanes or as an alternative to fossil fuels in industry. But one point seems to be lost in the debate: the climate impact of the chemical element.
Because even if only harmless water remains as the end product, hydrogen damages the atmosphere. And that is when it escapes through leaks or accidents.
The reasons behind now examined the German Academy of Science and Engineering (Acatech). The reaction with oxygen and the resulting water changes the composition of our atmosphere.
Hydrogen can become a climate killer
Specifically, the gas reacts with hydroxide molecules. Normally, however, our planet uses this hydroxide to break down greenhouse gases. If fewer molecules are available, the ozone content in the atmosphere increases and climate-damaging gases such as methane decompose more slowly.
In 20 years, hydrogen could have a 33 times greater climate impact than carbon dioxide, according to the experts. Nevertheless, this in no way means the end of hydrogen. As with other gases, it is important to ensure that it does not escape into the atmosphere during transport.
Potential risks must be included in the debate
However, the chemical element is regarded as a beacon of hope, especially for heavy industry. Germany in particular has a large steel and chemical industry that emits dozens of tons of greenhouse gases every year due to their dependence on coal. The use of green hydrogen could in turn have a significant impact on our carbon footprint.
Until then, however, certain standards are required to rule out risks. But these are still not available. The Association of Gas Transmission System Operators (FNB Gas) has proven, for example, that valves or sliders in particular can pose a risk.
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