Integration of UN sustainable development goals in national hydrogen strategies: A text analysis approach

Despite the growing recognition of hydrogen's potential role in sustainable development, there is limited understanding of how national hydrogen strategies align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study addresses this knowledge gap by examining the integration of the SDGs into national hydrogen strategies through text analysis. Among 66 reviewed strategic documents, only 15 explicitly reference specific SDGs, though SDG-related keywords are widespread, particularly regarding SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Statistical analysis demonstrates a significant link between the presence of hydrogen strategies and both overall SDG performance and progress on most specific SDGs. However, countries with hydrogen strategies show lower scores for SDGs 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 13, and there are no significant differences for SDGs 10 (Reduced Inequalities), 14 (Life below Water), and 15 (Life on Land). Our findings highlight the need for more explicit integration of SDGs into hydrogen strategies and better consideration of sustainability synergies and trade-offs, providing policymakers with evidence-based guidance for aligning hydrogen strategies with global sustainability objectives. • Analysis of SDG prevalence in 66 national hydrogen strategies through text analysis. • Explicit references to SDGs identified in less than 25% of strategies. • Clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13) are the predominant focuses. • Countries with hydrogen strategies show higher overall SDG performance. • Need for more explicit SDG integration to maximize hydrogen sustainability potential.