Chapter 23 - Production of biofuel from genetically modified microalgal biomass and its effects on environment and public health

Abstract

The current trend of increase in production and consumption of biofuel reflects the need for more production in the near future. The genetically engineered microalgal cells and fundamental structural units of applied biomass act as the tiny transformation units for biofuel generation from the trapped solar energy. With technological application at the level of processing of biomass, liquid biofuel such as biodiesel is produced. The application of genetically modified microalgal species retains the potential to boost up the efficiency of processing and production of biofuel from operating units. At certain times, the application of genetically modified organisms in operating units may pose threat to the established biological diversity, public health, and their environment. The social acceptance and economic feasibility of biofuel production from genetically modified microalgal biomass are key determinants to decide its success under field-scale use. It may pave the way for better utilization of renewable resources to expand the base of biofuel production and consumption at the community level.