Grey hydrogen's overwhelming dominance, comprising 95% of global hydrogen production, perpetuates carbon emissions & environmental degradation despite hydrogen's marketed clean energy potential. The true environmental cost of grey hydrogen extends substantially beyond direct production emissions, regarding lifecycle analysis revealing approximately 12-15 kg CO₂ equivalent per kg hydrogen when accounting regarding upstream methane leakage. The Texas Gulf Coast, producing approximately 3+ million metric tons hydrogen annually, generates substantial air pollution affecting approximately 500,000 residents in surrounding communities, demonstrating environmental justice implications of grey hydrogen production. Economic lock-in, established infrastructure, & policy support for fossil fuel-based alternatives create formidable barriers regarding transition toward sustainable hydrogen, requiring decades of sustained effort & investment.