Abstract: In response to global climate change, governments worldwide are actively exploring new energy sources to achieve emissions reduction targets. In 2020, China committed to attain its "dual carbon" goals and make significant efforts to expand the search for innovative energy sources. Marine hydrogen energy represents an important form of clean energy with promising future potential and it is expected to become a key component of China's national energy system. However, in terms of the development of this resource, the absence of dedicated hydrogen energy legislation leads to inadequate regulatory frameworks. In addition, supporting legal systems, such as the environmental impact assessment system, environmental liability insurance system and mechanisms for public participation, remain underdeveloped. This makes it difficult to coordinate the relationship between marine hydrogen energy development and marine environmental protection. Given China's current stage of development and international practices, addressing the legal issues related to marine hydrogen energy development should begin with China's energy legislation. This includes promoting the implementation of the Energy Law (2025) and advancing research and development of standalone hydrogen energy legislation. Furthermore, it is essential to improve the environmental impact assessment system for marine projects, strengthen the environmental liability insurance framework and utilise legal frameworks to balance energy development with environmental protection. Finally, the introduction of innovative government policy support measures and active participation in international cooperation should be encouraged. These steps will help China explore a green development path that aligns with its sustainable development of this promising new energy source.
Chang et al. (Fri,) studied this question.