Characters:
- Alex (10 years old, curious and passionate about technology)
- Mara (10 years old, passionate about ecology and a green future)
Alex: Hey, Mara! Have you ever heard of “green gases”? My dad told me that one day we’ll use gas without polluting the planet. How does that work?
Mara: Yes, I’ve read about it! Green gases are those that don’t produce a lot of carbon emissions, like biomethane and green hydrogen. Biomethane is a gas made from organic waste, like food scraps and animal manure, while green hydrogen is produced using renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
Alex: But do you think we’ll still use gas when we grow up? Maybe everyone will have “all-electric” homes, without gas pipes!
Mara: Not exactly! The “all-electric” solution isn’t possible everywhere. In some places, gas heating is still more efficient and affordable. That’s why there will be smart gas networks using clean sources like biomethane and hydrogen instead of traditional natural gas.
Alex: So that means gas networks will become smart? What does that mean?
Mara: Exactly! By 2050, when we’re adults, gas networks will have sensors to optimize consumption and reduce waste. We’ll use only what we need, without any extra pollution. Plus, technology will allow us to combine different energy sources in a smart way.
Alex: That sounds cool! But why 2050? What’s so special about that year?
Mara: It’s the year when Europe aims to reach “net zero emissions” under the Green Deal. This means all the energy we use must be sustainable, so we don’t increase pollution levels on the planet.
Alex: Wow! So, when we grow up, the world will be greener and cleaner?
Mara: Yes! There will be more forests, less pollution, and even if we still use gas, it will be renewable and clean. We will live in a world with a better energy balance!
Alex: That sounds amazing! I want to work for a company that develops these smart green gas networks!
Mara: And I want to be an environmental scientist to make sure these technologies are used correctly to protect nature. Let’s learn more about green energy!
Alex: Yes! Maybe one day, we’ll be the ones who change the world!
Why is pollution dangerous?
Pollution is harmful because it makes the air dirty and unhealthy to breathe. When we burn fossil fuels like coal and oil, they release carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. This makes the planet hotter, causing climate change, extreme weather, and even melting ice at the North and South Poles. That’s why green energy, like biomethane and hydrogen, is so important – it helps keep the air clean and our planet safe!