Application of hydrogen in transport and contribution the development of green logistics

Abstract

Abstract: Hydrogen is considered by many experts to be the fuel of the future and the use of hydrogen is predicted in all branches of transport: road, rail, sea and air transport. The contribution of hydrogen in the fight against climate change is great because it has the ability to replace fossil fuels in traffic. The use of hydrogen in the transport sector enables a greater share of road electronic vehicles, given that hydrogen as a fuel reduces the main disadvantages of today’s electric vehicles with a built-in battery and plays a significant role in rail and ship transport. Day by day, hydrogen technology is advancing more and more, and there are fuel cells and hydrogen tanks used in airplanes. Thus, the paper provides a description of hydrogen as a fuel of the future, along with a description of its application and storage, and a critical view of the great expectations in the green logistic sector. Therefore, the aim of this work is to process and resolve the pre-set research hypotheses of the work that defines hydrogen as the fuel of the future. It also defines that by adhering to the European Green Plan and the Hydrogen Strategy, it is possible to achieve the desired results of sustainable logistics practice. This would render logistics operations ecologically sustainable in alignment with environmental protection regulations etc.

1. INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of green logistics through the application of hydrogen in transportation. In order for hydrogen to be used as a fuel in the future, it is essential to thoroughly investigate and identify its primary advantages as well as its drawbacks. Additionally, the paper aims to outline the factors hindering the widespread use of hydrogen as a fuel, while also addressing its disadvantages and proposing effective solutions to overcome these challenges. The logistics sector is increasingly focusing its activities on reducing the negative impact on the environment, thereby actively contributing to the community. This approach is known as green logistics, and the achievement of environmental protection goals is realized through the use of renewable energy sources in logistics processes, while avoiding activities that harm the environment. The term "green logistics" emerged in the mid-1980s and is closely related to sustainable development. The impact of the transport sector on greenhouse gas emissions cannot be ignored, which is why the development of environmentally friendly alternative fuels has become crucial. Alternative fuels, which can replace fossil fuels, even partially, are important for transportation energy and can help in the decarbonization of the transport system. One of these fuels is hydrogen, which is considered the fuel of the future. Research into fuel cell technology, which offers high efficiency and minimal environmental impact, is becoming increasingly important. Fuel cells convert the chemical energy of hydrogen into electrical energy, which can be used to power devices such as generators, batteries, laptops, mobile phones, and vehicles. The success of hydrogen vehicle technology depends on fuel costs, the development and expansion of hydrogen refueling stations, and the safety and characteristics of vehicles using hydrogen propulsion.

2. METHODOLOGY

The writing process involved the use of scientific methods. The primary method was definition, which clarified the key terms in the text. The content analysis technique was used to gather information about green logistics and hydrogen as a fuel. The description method refers to the application of hydrogen in transportation and hydrogen refueling stations. Deductive reasoning was used to process the data and draw conclusions about the importance of hydrogen as a fuel and the role of the European plan for the development of green logistics.

3. RESULTS

The paper proposed two hypotheses, with the first being confirmed. It states that hydrogen is the fuel of the future due to the growing demand for renewable and sustainable energy. Hydrogen vehicles, powered by fuel cells, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and offer an efficient, clean solution. Investment in infrastructure will lower costs and increase hydrogen vehicle availability, with Croatia's hydrogen bus project in Zagreb being a key example.

The second hypothesis, still under investigation, suggests that alignment with the European Green Deal and hydrogen strategies will drive green logistics development, depending on significant investments. Change will take time, but once individuals recognize the importance of green logistics, we can collectively make a meaningful impact. This paper offers recommendations for achieving ecological sustainability and social responsibility.