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Written by: J C Burke

Published: 16 June 2025

Last Updated: 22 November 2025

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Why the HYDROGEN Summit is Important:

Having attended the World Bio-Gas Summit at the NEC, last year it is important to keep all viable innovative options open. Whilst a big fan of Bio-Methane, we are interested to hear about Hydrogen as a fuel (but presumably not for FUSION just yet!!) Will be attending the World Bio-Gas Summit this year too [9th-10th July 2025 - Birmingham NEC]

FT Sponsored Summit:

24th June 2025; Marriott Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, London W1K 6JP

Hear from 50+ CEOs, energy innovators, policymakers and financiers

• Explore practical hydrogen solutions that are moving from ambition to execution—addressing cost, efficiency, and real-world scalability.
• Delve into the global hydrogen landscape and dive into regional insights from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
• Unlock strategies and financial mechanisms needed to de-risk hydrogen projects, secure long-term offtake agreements, and accelerate Final Investment Decision.

Meet 250+ hydrogen pioneers under one roof

• Access exclusive delegate matchmaking with C-suite leaders via the FT Live app—ensuring high-impact connections.
• With 75% of attendees holding senior job titles, this is where the industry’s most influential leaders connect.
• In an intimate setting, build business-critical relationships and kick start new business deals.

A one-day strategic agenda on transitioning from hype to realism

• Focused debates and case studies will explore hydrogen s real-world applications including success’ and setbacks.
• Spend less time out of the office and walk away with the knowledge and clarity needed to future proof your strategy.
• Moderated by senior FT journalists to cut through the jargon and bring you realistic opinions.

 What’s new for the Hydrogen Summit in 2025 Watch on demand

• Hydrogen vs. Electrification Debate: A first-time discussion on where hydrogen fits in the future energy mix.
• Success & Failure Case Studies: Learn from real-world project successes and mistakes.
• Expanded Global Focus: Insights from Africa, the Middle East & Southeast Asia, alongside Europe & North America.
• Dedicated Financing Discussions: New panels on addressing bankability, securing offtake agreements, and exploring alternative & blended funding models.

 FT Registration - Hydrogen Summit

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Written by: J C Burke

Published: 06 November 2024

Last Updated: 22 November 2025

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Methane {CH₄} is produced through a variety of sources. Human activity has been known to produce copious amounts of methane through rice farming, livestock farming, landfills, biomass burning/digesting, coal mining and drilling for oil/gas.

Natural sources include cellulose-disgesting bacteria, or methanogens, in the gut of termites or in the wetlands.

Methane is produced through two major pathways under anaerobic conditions, where

• carbon dioxide is reduced with hydrogen, fatty acids, or alcohols as hydrogen donors.
• transmethylation of acetic acid (CH₃COOH) or methyl alcohol (CH₃OH).

Abiotic Generation of Methane;

[Link to Abstract] Over the last 30 years, geochemical research has demonstrated that abiotic methane (CH₄), formed by chemical reactions which do not directly involve organic matter, occurs on Earth in several specific geologic environments. It can be produced by either high-temperature magmatic processes in volcanic and geothermal areas, or via low-temperature (<100°C) gas-water-rock reactions in continental settings, even at shallow depths.

The isotopic composition of C and H is a first step in distinguishing abiotic from biotic (including either microbial or thermogenic) CH₄.

Herein we demonstrate that integrated geochemical diagnostic techniques, based on molecular composition of associated gases, noble gas isotopes, mixing models, and a detailed knowledge of the geologic and hydrogeologic context are necessary to confirm the occurrence of abiotic CH₄ in natural gases, which are frequently mixtures of multiple sources.

Although it has been traditionally assumed that abiotic CH₄ is mainly related to mantle-derived or magmatic processes, a new generation of data is showing that low-temperature synthesis related to gas-water-rock reactions is more common than previously thought.

This paper reviews the major sources of abiotic CH₄ and the primary approaches for differentiating abiotic from biotic CH_4, including novel potential tools such as clumped isotope geochemistry. A diagnostic approach for differentiation is proposed.

Key Points

• Abiotic CH4 occurs in specific geologic areas under a wide range of temperature
• Updated global CH4 isotopic diagram is provided
• Integration of geochemical-geological data necessary to determine abiotic origin

https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/rog.20011

Methane is Abundent

Although this phenomenon is well understood, calculating the actual net amount is a bit complicated since methane can be consumed in overlying aerobic layers. Nevertheless, current estimates put methane production on the order of millions of tonnes. [4]

One source in particular has gained much attention over the past few years. Methane clathrate, or more colloquially known as "fire ice", is found as an ice crystal with natural methane gas locked inside, formed through the combination of low temperatures and high pressure. One cubic meter of the compound releases about 160 cubic meters of gas, making it a highly energy-intensive fuel. [5] A large portion of methane can be found distributed primarily within permafrost regions and in continental slode sediments. [6] Evidence shows that these deposits are enormous, with more energy stored in methane hydrates compared to the world's oil, coal and gas combined. Methane produces energy in the form of heat when ignited through oxidative pyrolysis. The following reaction equations describe this process: [4]

CH₄ + O₂            →             CO + 2 H₂O    (oxidative pyrolysis)

2 H₂ + O₂           →             2 H₂O + ENERGY    (heat)

2 CO + O₂          →             2 CO₂ + ENERGY    (heat)

CH₄ + 2 O₂        →             CO₂ + 2 H₂O + 891kJ/mol (STP)

Recent efforts especially by Japan have proven to be fruitful, where there is an estimated 6 trillion cubic meters of methane hydrate in sedimentary basins nearby. [7]

References

[1] "BP Statistical Review of World Energy 2016," British Petroleum, Jun 2016

[2] B. Bhandari et.al., "Mathematical Modeling of Hybrid Renewable Energy System: A Review on Small Hydro-Solar-Wind Power Generation," Int. J. Precis. Eng. Man. Tech. 1, 157 (2014).

[3] K. L., Cashdollar et.al., "Flammability of Methane, Propane, and Hydrogen gas," J. Loss Prev. Process Ind. 13, 327 (2000)

[4] L., Milich, "The Role of Methane in Global Warming: Where Might Mitigation Strategies Be Focused?," Global Environ. Change 9, 179 (1999)

[5] S-Y., Lee, G.D., Holder, "Methane Hydrates Potential as a Future Energy Source," Fuel Process. Technol. 71, 181 (2001)

[6] L.D. D. Harvey and Z. Huang, "Evaluation of the Potential Impact of Methane Clathrate Destabilization on Future Global Warming," J. Geophys. Res. 100, 2905 (1995)

[7] H. Koide and K., Yamazaki, "Subsurface CO2 Disposal With Enhanced Gas Recovery and Biogeochemical Carbon Recycling," Environ. Geosci. 8, 218 (2001)

[8] A. R., Moss, J-P. Jouany, and J. Newbold, "Methane Production by Ruminants: Its Contribution to Global Warming," Ann. Zootech. 49, 231 (2000)

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Written by: J C Burke

Published: 03 October 2023

Last Updated: 22 November 2025

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• Lithium
• Cobalt
• Battery Technology

Further "interviews" with ChatGPT the {claimed} "AI" resource; a series of questions are needed to get to the issues, like any interview.

ZES/SEE Interviewer Questions, commentary and/or reaction to ChatGPT replies
"Lithium and Cobalt are needed for battery technology, but modern slavery issues need to be addresses, can you write a scholarly article on this theme with references to research?"

ChatGPT Answered as follows:

Introduction

Lithium and cobalt are two essential materials used in battery technology, particularly in lithium-ion batteries. These batteries power electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric cars. The demand for lithium and cobalt has increased significantly in recent years, and the production of these minerals often involves the exploitation of workers and serious human rights abuses. This article will explore the modern slavery issues surrounding the production of lithium and cobalt and the steps being taken to address these issues.

Lithium and Cobalt Production

• Lithium is primarily extracted from brine pools and hard rock deposits, with the largest producers being Australia, Chile, and Argentina. Cobalt is mainly mined in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which accounts for approximately 60% of global production.
• In the DRC, much of the cobalt is produced through artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), which is typically carried out by hand and involves dangerous working conditions, including exposure to toxic chemicals and accidents. The majority of ASM in the DRC is unregulated, and workers often do not receive adequate pay or protection.
• In addition to the risks associated with ASM, there are also concerns about child labor in the cobalt mines. According to a 2020 report by Amnesty International, children as young as six are working in cobalt mines in the DRC, often in hazardous conditions.
• Similarly, in lithium production, workers face health and safety risks due to exposure to chemicals and dust. In some cases, workers are not provided with protective equipment or training.

Modern Slavery Issues

The exploitation of workers in the production of lithium and cobalt is a significant concern and can constitute modern slavery. The International Labour Organization (ILO) defines modern slavery as "situations of exploitation that a person cannot refuse or leave because of threats, violence, coercion, deception, and/or abuse of power" (ILO, 2021).

In the DRC, where much of the cobalt is produced, the ILO has identified several indicators of forced labor, including debt bondage, restriction of movement, and withholding of wages. Similarly, in lithium production, there are concerns about forced labor, particularly in countries with weak labor protections.

Addressing Modern Slavery Issues

• The exploitation of workers in the production of lithium and cobalt is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Companies that use these materials have a responsibility to ensure that their supply chains are free from forced labor and to work with their suppliers to improve labor conditions.
• Several initiatives have been established to address the modern slavery issues in lithium and cobalt production. In 2019, the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) launched a program to address human rights risks in the cobalt supply chain. The program includes due diligence tools, training, and capacity building for suppliers and has been endorsed by several major companies, including Apple and Microsoft.
• Similarly, the Global Battery Alliance (GBA), which was launched in 2017, aims to create a sustainable battery value chain by addressing social and environmental issues. The GBA includes stakeholders from across the battery value chain, including mining companies, battery manufacturers, and automotive companies, and has established a framework for responsible mining.

Conclusion

The production of lithium and cobalt is essential for battery technology, but the exploitation of workers in the production process must be addressed. Modern slavery issues, including forced labor and child labor, are a significant concern and require a multifaceted approach involving companies, governments, and civil society.

Initiatives such as the RMI and GBA are important steps towards improving labor conditions in the lithium and cobalt supply chains, but more needs to be done to ensure that workers are protected from exploitation. Companies that use these materials must take responsibility for their supply chains and work with their suppliers to improve labor

Read more: Lithium and Battery Technology

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Written by: J C Burke

Published: 01 July 2022

Last Updated: 22 November 2025

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The World needs quick and practical 'fixes' to avoid a gathering storm of crises, most immediately the energy supply crisis, and potential farming/food production crises.

The Anaerobic Digestion (AD) and biogas industry is recognised as one of the required quick fixes. The reasons are many:

• AD’s ability to mitigate methane emissions from rotting organic wastes, positions it among the ‘fastest, most immediate and cost-effective’ ways to solve the issues raised above - "low hanging fruit" as it were, and will play a crucial role in delivering the Global Methane Pledge.
• AD produces natural fertiliser, a ready organic replacement for its petro-chemical counterpart, where a 20% slump in supply, forecast to last for several years, has led to ‘famine’ warnings.
• AD produces renewable energy, that cuts costs of manufacture, allows governments to insulate economies from international price hikes.
• AD can produce biomethane as clean transport fuel – dramatically reducing so-called 'carbon (dioxide) emissions and cutting air pollution in our cities ( as a replacement of diesel fuels), delivering health benefits valued in the billions of dollars/pounds.
• AD and biogas are the readily available, ready to deploy at scale, solution to these global challenges. With the right enabling environment AD can deliver millions of skilled jobs, especially potentially transitioning from the oil and gas industry, rural sustainability, energy and food security.
• As a circular solution the deployment of AD has a ripple effect – stimulating sustainable practices across society. That is why the International Energy Agency (IEA) says AD sits at the heart of a circular economy and is the poster boy for net zero.
• AD sits at the heart of an integrated energy response to the challenges we face, delivering immediate results and ushering in an era of flexible energy management systems that integrates technologies across different energy vectors (electricity, heat and gas) and Supporting Food Production with the by-products (Compost etc).

Developing the enabling environment to unleash the power of biogas is what global thought leadership summit's explore, with industry leaders addressing best practice to de-risk and short-circuit AD deployment.

In summary: Some key features of bioenergy:

• Available now
• Applicable in all energy sectors (electricity, direct heat, transport)
• Readily integrated with existing infrastructure
• Store-able – it can support expansion of intermittent renewables
• It can deliver negative emissions when linked to Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS): BECCS / Bio-CCS

Bioenergy contributes to climate change mitigation when:

• Biomass is based on waste/residues
• Converted to energy products efficiently
• Used to displace GHG-intensive fuels

Bioenergy encompasses many potential feedstocks, conversion processes and energy applications. It interacts strongly with the agriculture, forestry and waste management sectors, and its prospects are linked to the growth of a broader bioeconomy. Bioenergy can only expand if supplied and used in a sustainable manner.

Read more: Anaerobic Digestion (AD) and biogas industry