A hydrogen-powered ferry, the Sea Change, built in Washington state, has begun operations in San Francisco Bay, sparking hope for cleaner energy solutions. The ferry is the first in the world to run entirely on zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells, with its only exhaust being water, making it safe to drink. Clean energy advocates see this innovation as a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Erika Thi Patterson, senior director of climate programs at Pacific Environment, emphasized the potential for other ferry fleets to follow suit. Port and municipal leaders in cities like New York and Seattle have expressed interest in adopting similar technology for their transportation systems. King County Metro in Washington aims to achieve a zero-emission transportation fleet by 2035, aligning with the larger goal of decarbonizing maritime fleets. Patterson highlighted the importance of reducing shipping emissions not just for climate action but also to protect the health of communities near ports. She emphasized that port side communities, often composed of working-class people of color, bear the brunt of harmful pollution from maritime activities. The Sea Change's environmentally friendly operation signifies a crucial step in promoting cleaner and safer transportation options. One notable feature of the Sea Change highlighted by Patterson is the purity of its exhaust. The water produced as exhaust is so clean that passengers can drink it, demonstrating the safety and environmental benefits of hydrogen fuel cells. This innovation not only represents a breakthrough in clean energy technology but also underscores the potential for hydrogen-powered transportation to revolutionize the maritime industry and reduce the environmental impact of traditional fuel sources.