Microalgae: A promising source for biofuel production

Abstract

Biofuels are emerged as an alternative to fossil fuels due to their sustainable and renewable nature. Among various biofuel sources, algae have gained significant attention due to their high growth rates, photosynthetic efficiency, and ability to produce lipids and carbohydrates required for Biofuels production. Algae cultivation has no special requirements only water, simple salts, minerals, and sunlight are required. Also, biofuel production from algae cultivated in wastewater has an added advantage of wastewater treatment and CO2 sequestration from the environment. Although, commercial feasibility of algae based biofuel is still uncertain and so far not clear if it could compete equally with other available fuels in the market. The experts are in favour of promotion of algae based biofuels considering the added advantage of carbon sequestration and wastewater treatment approach involved in algae based biofuels. The concept of a circular economy and carbon neutrality in algae cultivation and harvesting are two intertwined approaches that hold great promise for sustainable and environmental friendly algae based biofuel production. This article provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in algae-based biofuel production, focusing on cultivation and harvesting techniques, factors affecting algae growth, algae-based biofuel production technologies, and the commercial feasibility of algae for biofuel production. Further, research related to cultivation and harvesting, developing new species, and optimizing the biofuel production process should be carried out to make the prices of algae based biofuels competitive.