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The Hydrogen Paradigm and Global Hydrogen Transition—Environmental Challenges and Strategic Steps towards a Sustainable Energy System

Melita Srpak¹, Darko Pavlovic², Predrag Brlek^3,*, Nikola Kozul³

1 Department of Physical Planning, Varazdin County, Varazdin, Croatia
2 Plinacro, Ltd., Gas Tansmission System Operator, Savska Cesta 88a, Zagreb, Croatia
3 Faculty of Traffic and Transport Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding Author: Predrag Brlek. Email:

(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Energy Transition in the Transport Sector: Challenges and Opportunities)

Energy Engineering 2026, 123(3), 1 https://doi.org/10.32604/ee.2026.075211

Received 27 October 2025; Accepted 16 January 2026; Issue published 27 February 2026

Abstract

Discussions about the future of energy sources and environmental sustainability are becoming critical on a global scale. The energy sector plays a central role in the economy, as the availability and cost of energy influence the competitiveness of economies, while the level of energy consumption impacts the standard of living for individuals. This paper aims to examine environmental challenges and steps for a sustainable transition towards a hydrogen economy, focusing on its potential as an alternative to fossil fuels and the importance of developing the hydrogen paradigm. The research methodology is based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, including an analysis of global and regional trends in the energy transition, the impact of various forms of hydrogen production (green, blue, gray hydrogen) on greenhouse gas emissions, and a comparison of existing policies and strategies in different countries transitioning to a sustainable hydrogen economy. Research results show that green hydrogen, produced via electrolysis using renewable energy sources, holds the greatest potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while gray and blue hydrogen can serve as transitional options. The development of the hydrogen paradigm, rooted in innovative technologies, renewable energy sources, and international cooperation, is crucial for decarbonization and the creation of a sustainable global economy, despite challenges such as high costs and the need for global coordination. The hydrogen paradigm is becoming a cornerstone of these efforts, laying the foundation for a long-term, sustainable global economy. Currently, over 180 hydrogen transport projects, 60 distribution projects, 80 storage projects, 30 terminal and port projects, and more than 220 hydrogen production projects are under development worldwide. The global momentum of the hydrogen transition helps mitigate climate change and build a sustainable future.

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Keywords

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