Virginia Tech has secured a $1.3 million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to spearhead research on transforming natural gas into turquoise hydrogen in Southwest Virginia. Led by associate professor Sheima Khatib, the project seeks to establish a hydrogen innovation hub utilizing the region's gas resources to produce hydrogen through catalytic methane decomposition, offering a cleaner and more cost-effective solution. The initiative aims to promote economic development, diversify local economies, and support workforce preparedness for the chemical manufacturing industry. The method developed by Khatib's team generates hydrogen without producing CO2 emissions, presenting a significant advancement in clean hydrogen production. The resulting hydrogen can be utilized in fuel cells and various industrial processes, while the solid carbon byproduct opens avenues for new economic opportunities in advanced materials. Collaborations with academic and industrial partners ensure the technology's commercial viability and scalability. The project further focuses on workforce development and community engagement, with rural education expert Amy Price Azano creating programs to raise awareness of sustainable energy technologies among rural schools. By turning methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into valuable products, the research aims to reduce emissions and drive sustainable economic growth. The comprehensive approach aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, stimulate economic development, and enhance energy security at both regional and national levels.