A new report from the Royal Society delves into the emerging potential of natural hydrogen as a low-carbon energy source. Unlike green and blue hydrogen, natural hydrogen, forming through chemical reactions in the Earth's crust, could offer a cheaper and more sustainable alternative if extracted safely and in adequate quantities. Key applications include fertiliser production, ammonia synthesis, industrial heating, energy storage, and heavy transport. Although commercial examples in Mali and exploration efforts in various countries showcase promise, challenges like lack of regulation and the risk of overhyping the resource are significant. The report stresses the need for scientific rigor, good data, and realistic expectations to ensure the responsible development of natural hydrogen for a cleaner energy future. Countries such as the US, Canada, Australia, and France are actively exploring natural hydrogen, while regions like Cornwall and parts of Scotland hold promise for future extraction. However, a lack of legislation and clear regulation poses a barrier to exploration. Simplifying permitting processes and establishing dedicated frameworks will be crucial to support safe and effective development. The Royal Society cautions against treating natural hydrogen as a 'gold rush' and emphasizes the importance of coordinated exploration and robust research to fully understand the resource's potential and ensure its integration into a sustainable energy landscape.