Green Hydrogen Production in North Africa Poses Threat to Water Security and Marine Ecosystems

According to a report by The Hindu, projects to export green hydrogen from North Africa to Europe could pose a serious threat to local water supplies and marine ecosystems. To produce green hydrogen, water molecules must be split into hydrogen and oxygen, a process that requires large quantities of water. The regions in North Africa where solar and wind energy sources are abundant are also the areas facing the most severe water scarcity. Since groundwater levels in these regions have already depleted significantly, additional consumption could make the situation even more critical.

Green hydrogen is a type of renewable energy whose widespread use could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. This clean, zero-emission fuel is primarily used in industries such as steel production and chemical refining. Additionally, it has the potential to be used in heavy transport sectors such as maritime shipping, aviation, and long-haul trucking. However, there is an environmental cost to pay for the production of this energy.

Green hydrogen is a clean fuel obtained through the electrolysis of water. In the past, this technology was considered environmentally friendly, but concerns are now being raised regarding the conservation of water sources required for its production.