Given below are two statements

Statement I: To address problem of climate change it is essential for the world to have 'Net Zero' carbon emissions by the year 2050.
Statement II: There is zero carbon emission associated with the production of gray-hydrogen.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

Statement I is true. Achieving "Net Zero" carbon emissions by 2050 is widely considered essential for limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, which is a critical threshold to prevent severe climate impacts. This target is advocated by the United Nations, the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), and various global initiatives aiming to reduce emissions and balance any remaining emissions with carbon removal technologies or offsets.
Statement II is false. Gray hydrogen production is associated with significant carbon emissions. It is produced from natural gas or coal through a process known as steam methane reforming, which releases CO₂ as a byproduct. Unlike green hydrogen, which is produced using renewable energy without carbon emissions, gray hydrogen is not a clean energy source due to its substantial carbon footprint.
Information Booster 1. Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050: "Net Zero" means that any greenhouse gases emitted are balanced by an equivalent amount of carbon removal, typically through processes like reforestation, carbon capture, or technological sequestration. The year 2050 is a key target set by many countries and institutions to avoid the most extreme impacts of climate change.
2. Types of Hydrogen Production:
· Gray Hydrogen: Produced from natural gas or coal, resulting in high CO₂ emissions.
· Blue Hydrogen: Similar to gray hydrogen but includes carbon capture and storage (CCS) to reduce emissions.
· Green Hydrogen: Produced using renewable energy (e.g., wind or solar) to electrolyze water, resulting in zero direct emissions.
1. Importance of Net Zero Goals: Net Zero by 2050 aligns with the Paris Agreement's goals of limiting temperature rise. Reaching Net Zero requires transformation in various sectors, including energy, transportation, and industry.
2. Carbon Footprint of Hydrogen Production: The environmental impact of hydrogen depends on the production method. Gray hydrogen is currently the most common but is carbon-intensive, while green hydrogen, though more expensive, is the most sustainable option with zero emissions.
3. Global Efforts for Clean Energy Transition: Many countries are investing in green hydrogen technology as part of their strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions, with the potential for green hydrogen to play a critical role in hard-to-decarbonize industries.