KlimaHydros

Students learn about the interrelationships between various future technologies using augmented reality and analog learning aids in a fictional world.

Global warming and the consequences of climate change present major challenges. Today's students are particularly affected. In times of high energy prices, it is more important than ever to accelerate the development of innovative energy technologies and to provide neutral guidance on how companies, municipalities, and individuals can use energy more economically or make effective use of renewable energies. This also includes introducing future technologies early and in an age-appropriate manner, such as the production and applications of hydrogen.

Hydrogen is one of the keys to a climate-neutral future. It can be produced using electricity from renewable energy sources, stored, and used immediately or at a later date in a variety of ways in the energy sector, industry, and transportation.

But how is hydrogen produced and used? In which application areas is the use of hydrogen sensible, and when is it more advisable to use other future technologies? These and other questions are central to the AR app. It empowers students in grades 10-13 to assess the possibilities and limitations of hydrogen use. Through an engaging story, which students immerse themselves in using augmented reality and analog learning materials, they learn about the connections between various future technologies.

The content focuses on the following key questions:

• What are the different ways hydrogen is produced, and how will hydrogen production change in the coming years (gray, blue, and green hydrogen)?

• How does fuel cell technology work?

• What are the potential uses and applications of hydrogen, and what are its limitations in relation to other technologies (availability, energy efficiency in hydrogen production and use, e.g., in transportation or heating, etc.)?

A young person named Lou explores these questions. Lou is intrigued by a poster in her city advertising innovative, climate-neutral sneakers called "Hydrosoles." Curious, she wants to find out more. She sets off, gathering information about hydrogen and the energy transition at various locations in her area. At the sneaker factory, she learns how hydrogen is used to produce polyurethane for the sneaker soles. At the university, she discovers that distinguishing between the different colors of hydrogen is crucial for the sustainable production of the sneakers. At the energy park, she visits not only the wind farm but also an electrolyzer used to produce hydrogen. Her experience becomes particularly exciting during a town hall meeting and as a trade fair participant. She realizes how important dialogue between different people is when it comes to our future technologies. At the end of her journey of discovery, she understands that innovative hydrogen technologies are also important for her own future. Full of enthusiasm, Lou decides to apply to the "Hydrosoles" company and prepares a three-minute pitch about the climate-neutral sneakers, incorporating her newly acquired knowledge.