Introduction to Hydrogen Economy and Hydrogen as a Sustainable Energy Carrier

Authors

Ibrar Ahmad
Southwest University of Political Science and Law, China
https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0846-0218
Jamil Afzal
International Islamic University Malaysia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5640-0578
Siraj Ahmad
Tianjin University, Tianjin China
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3040-7956

Synopsis

The hydrogen economy represents a great transformation in how we produce, store, and use energy globally. It is not merely a technological shift but a comprehensive restructuring of energy systems, markets, and international trade. Hydrogen, a versatile energy carrier, is increasingly recognised as a key enabler in the global effort to decarbonise sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as heavy industry and long-distance transportation. At its essence, hydrogen serves as a clean energy carrier that can be produced from various sources and used across multiple applications. Unlike conventional energy sources, hydrogen's unique properties make it particularly valuable in transitioning to sustainable energy systems. When used in fuel cells, hydrogen produces only water as a byproduct, making it an attractive option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The International Energy Agency's Global Hydrogen Review 2023 estimates that hydrogen could contribute up to 20% of the total carbon emissions reduction needed to achieve net zero by 2050, particularly in sectors where direct electrification is challenging.

Author Biographies

Ibrar Ahmad, Southwest University of Political Science and Law, China

Ibrar Ahmad is a PhD scholar in law at Southwest University of Political Science and Law, China, specializing in climate justice, environmental governance, and the legal frameworks that support sustainable development. His academic work addresses critical global challenges, with a particular focus on the role of legal structures in climate action and green energy transitions. Ibrar has contributed to a range of peer-reviewed journals, exploring judicial activism, environmental protection, and the legal implications of emerging technologies. His research also delves into the intersection of law and sustainability, highlighting the need for more effective global governance in addressing environmental issues. In addition to his academic achievements, Ibrar is an experienced lawyer currently practicing in China. He has worked with prestigious law firms, including his role as an associate advocate at King and Capital Law Firm in China, where he combines his legal expertise with cross-border legal practice.

Jamil Afzal, International Islamic University Malaysia

Dr. Jamil Afzal has been involved in research and teaching for various National and International institutes for more than ten years. He is the author of three books and a contributor/associate editor in two others, as well as the author of various high-ranking journal articles; he has also participated in reputable international conferences.  He is an expert in Digital Law, the Digital Economy, the Hydrogen Economy, and the Legal Phenomenon of Digitalization. Dr. Jamil Afzal founded Contemporary Theory of Digitalization (CToD); CToD consists of three levels, including 3Ds at the first and 5Ds at the second level, and 7Ds at the third level. He is the Principal Ethical Editor at the International Research and Publishing Academy (IRAPA) for its associated journals, and the Executive Director at Ahbab Lawer Forum & Research Society. He is the academic editor of PLOS ONE Journal, along with a peer reviewer of different international journals. He is listed in the top 2% of scientists working on “legal fundaments” (RIS of Dr. Jamil Afzal is higher than 98% of researchers working on “legal fundaments” around the world- RG Ranking 2025).

Siraj Ahmad, Tianjin University, Tianjin China

Siraj Ahmad is a Ph.D. scholar in Chemical Engineering at Tianjin University, specializing in advanced membrane technologies for N2/CH4 gas separation. He conducts his research under the supervision of Professor Wang Zhi at the Chemical Engineering Research Center and the Tianjin Key Laboratory for Membrane Science and Desalination Technology. His work focuses on the design and development of high-performance mixed matrix composite membranes for energy-efficient gas separation processes. In addition to his doctoral research, Siraj contributes extensively to the Advanced Instrument Analysis and Testing Center, part of the School of Chemical Engineering and Technology at Tianjin University. Here, he supports research and education by assisting visiting scholars and international researchers with advanced analytical techniques and instrumentation. Siraj’s work reflects a strong commitment to innovation in membrane science, sustainability in gas separation, and international academic collaboration.

Published

August 16, 2025

How to Cite

Introduction to Hydrogen Economy and Hydrogen as a Sustainable Energy Carrier. (2025). In Legal Framework of Green Hydrogen Production and Hydrogen Economy for Sustainable Development (pp. 28-53). Scientific Collaborative Online Publishing Universal Academy. https://doi.org/10.64060/978-627-7898-00-7-2