Some approach to possible atmospheric impacts of a hydrogen energy system in the light of the geological past and present-day

Hydrogen has a considerable potential for becoming a major factor in speeding the transition of our carbon-based global energy economy ultimately to a clean, renewable and sustainable economy. The development of hydrogen production, transportation-storage and utilization technologies can play a central role in addressing growing concerns over carbon emissions and climate change, as well as the future availability and security of energy supply. However the widespread use of hydrogen may have unknown environmental effect due to increased anthropogenic emissions of molecular hydrogen and other gases to the atmosphere, through production, transportation-storage and utilization processes. It is recognized that hydrogen participates in stratospheric chemical cycles of H2O and various greenhouse gases, and a substantial increase in its concentration might lead to changes in equilibrium concentration of constituent components of the stratosphere. More accurate modeling of the stratospheric processes as well as better understanding of several other factors such as hydrogen uptake in soil and its effect on microbial communities is required to assess potential adverse effects of hydrogen economy. It is critical for us to understand the potential adverse effect of widespread use of hydrogen and take necessary actions to understand and prevent its possible environmental impacts.

► Today global energy economy is based on fossil fuels which causes dramatic environmental problems.
► Hydrogen energy system is a strong candidate to replace it in the middle or long term.
► It is very important to preview atmospheric impacts of this system in the light of the geological past and present day.
► The possibility to track hydrogen and water vapor in the atmosphere can help measure some of the effects of a future hydrogen energy system.