BERLIN, June 2 (UPI) -- Berlin now has two hydrogen-powered buses running public transportation in the city in a project for the FIFA Soccer World Cup.
The project "Green Goal" aims to use alternative energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Berlin, German Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel said.
"In the long run, hydrogen fuels can become an integral part of a sustainable transportation strategy," he said in a statement. "During the transition period, bio fuels -- especially those of the second generation -- are the most important instrument to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in transportation."
The government has built a maintenance hall for the buses and a hydrogen station, where the vehicles can load up on fuel in liquid and gas form.
"Green Goal" is the World Cup organizing committee's environment and alternative energy concept for the monthlong soccer tournament, which starts June 9.
