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Introduction
XV
tive economics that could prove to offer them as a cost-competitive alternative to con-
ventional fossil fuels.
Kostandopoulos, an award-winning scientist, recognizes the pressing threat of cli-
mate change that requires us to diversify our energy mix and dramatically reduce our
dependence on fossil fuel. In his paper, the author discusses the potential of chemi-
cally storing the inexhaustible, renewable energy of the sun into synthetic, carbon
neutral, hydrocarbon fuels. His paper shows how, in this way, not only an alternative
to CO2 underground storage is offered but also a solution to the problem of storing
and transporting H2 which is a well-known barrier for the development of a ‘Hydrogen
Economy’.
In the extraordinary times we live in, it is crucial to remember that the climate crisis
has many tentacles and poses continuing threats and challenges to our modern socie-
ties. While this volume touches upon a number of different areas, it represents only a
small selection of problems requiring further study and policy implementation, if we
are to have any hope of responding to a global crisis that will forever impact our world.
Sophia Kalantzakos & Nikolaos Farantouris
Abu Dhabi, November 9, 2015