Harnessing Algae for Sustainable Energy
Currently, algae, one of the most diverse group of organisms in global environmental niches, is being considered for its prospects in the generation of renewable energy sources. Algae, unlike some biofuels that are sourced from crops such as corn or soy, can be grown on various types of solar products and can be produced on non-farmlands, on wastewater and therefore do not take up agricultural space.
It is also important to note that algae is capable of synthesising lipids, which can be used to create biodiesel as an environmentally friendly energy resource. Besides, algae are fast-growing plants and produce relatively high biomass-yield per unit area than most of the horticultural crops. Algae biofuels are a promising counter-part to traditional fossil fuels and may help to cut down greenhouse gas emissions and the usage of non-renewal resources.
Furthermore, light algaecan be used to remove CO2 from the environment, which helps to solve one of the biggest issues facing the world today—climate change. As algae undertake photosynthesis, they use carbon dioxide which has the potential of being captured and transformed into bio-fuels hence reducing the general burden of carbon.
People are constantly conducting studies to address the cost issue when it comes to the manufacture of algae biofuel. Promises of genetic engineering alongside man breastfeeding pictures, bioreactor design is an important prerequisite for scalability. As we look forward to the challenges of the future in employing energy that is renewable then we need to embrace algae bio fuels as one of the options towards a better way of living.