Global Warming Consequences of a Future Hydrogen Economy

This paper takes a forward look at the possible consequences of a future hydrogen economy, which is seen by some experts as a panacea largely without adverse environmental consequences. The paper takes a dispassionate look at the effects of the increasing use of hydrogen as a fuel upon atmospheric chemistry and how this will impact climate. The overall conclusion of this paper, however, is that the climate effects of a hydrogen economy will be much smaller than those of the carbon economy it may replace and, at least in respect of climate impacts, this is rather reassuring.