Comparative Assessment of Environmental Impacts Characterized in Environmental Impact Studies (EIAS/RIMAS) for Green Hydrogen Production Plants in the State of Ceará

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the environmental impacts characterized in the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs/RIMAs) submitted to the Superintendência Estadual de Meio Ambiente do Ceará (SEMACE) for Green Hydrogen production industries to be implemented. Theoretical Framework: Environmental licensing and the legal aspects related to the Green Hydrogen industry have been debated due to its potential contribution to a low-carbon energy transition and the decarbonization of various productive sectors. Method: The methodology involved a quali-quantitative document analysis of environmental studies obtained through SEMACE, with subsequent data processing using Excel spreadsheets and Power BI software for result visualization and comparison. A total of five EIAs submitted to the environmental agency were identified. Results and Discussion: The results revealed significant discrepancies in the quantity and characterization of the impacts identified, including nomenclature errors, overestimation, underestimation, and a lack of standardization in the terms used. The majority of impacts in all environmental studies were negative in nature and occurred during the installation phase. Research Implications: This research highlighted inconsistencies and biases in the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) of Green Hydrogen plants in Ceará, demonstrating the need for standardization and greater technical rigor in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process for this activity. Originality/Value: This study emphasizes the need for improvements in methodological approaches to ensure accurate assessments in environmental studies. Additionally, it proposes a Standardized Environmental Impact Matrix to optimize future environmental studies and strengthen environmental licensing in the Green Hydrogen sector.