In her TED talk “How green hydrogen could end the fossil fuel era,” Vaitea Cowan speaks on the potential of green hydrogen as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Cowan explains that green hydrogen is produced using renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and can be used to power a wide range of applications: including transportation and industrial processes.

The significance of Cowan’s talk lies in the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels and towards sustainable energy sources. Fossil fuels are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, and their earthly extraction and use have devastating impacts on the environment and human health. Cowan states that green hydrogen provides a promising solution to these problems, as it can be produced using clean energy sources, and has the potential to replace fossil fuels in multiple applications.

Cowan’s talk is particularly relevant for our class because it highlights the importance of sustainable energy solutions in addressing the environmental challenges of our time. The talk provides a clear and accessible introduction to the concept of green hydrogen and its potential as a sustainable energy source. Students can learn about the benefits and challenges of green hydrogen, as well as, the policy and investment measures needed to scale up its production and use.

Furthermore, Cowan’s talk provides a valuable example of how individuals can contribute to the transition to sustainable energy  through innovation and entrepreneurship. Cowan herself is a young entrepreneur, who is working to develop green hydrogen solutions, and her talk can inspire students to pursue similar paths and make a positive impact on the environment and society. Overall, “How green hydrogen could end the fossil fuel era” is a solution-based, informative talk that is relevant for this class.