Which electrochemical process is considered environmentally friendly?

Electrochemical water splitting for hydrogen production is considered environmentally friendly because it utilizes renewable energy sources and processes to generate hydrogen, a clean fuel. This method involves using electricity—ideally from sustainable sources such as wind, solar, or hydro—to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen produced can be used in fuel cells, which release only water vapor when generating energy, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

In contrast, burning fossil fuels emits significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants, contributing to climate change and environmental degradation. Lead-acid batteries, while useful for energy storage, contain toxic materials that can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. Disposing of chemical waste in landfills poses risks of soil and water contamination, which can have long-term detrimental effects on ecosystems and human health. Therefore, electrochemical water splitting stands out as a process that aligns with sustainable practices.