Systematic review and perspective on the progress of algal biofuels

In recognition of the increasing demand of energy and the worsening environmental problems linked with fossil fuels usage, algal biofuel has been proposed as one of the alternative energy sources. It has become one of the hottest topics in renewable energy field in the new century, especially over the past decade. In this review, we summarized the characteristics of different types of algae biofuels. Besides, an in-depth evaluation of the systematic cultivation and practical application of algae have been conducted. Although algal biofuel has a great potential, its unacceptably high cost limits the large-scale industrialization. In order to resolve such restrictions, feasible methods of improving the large scale production and practical application of algal biofuels are proposed. Future efforts should be focused not only on the cost reduction and innovation techniques, but also towards high value by-products to maximize economic benefits. Our results are dedicated to provide valuable references for subsequent research and guidelines on algae biofuels field.

The Microalgae Biorefinery: A Perspective on the Current Status and Future Opportunities Using Genetic Modification

There is clear scientific evidence that emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), arising from fossil fuel combustion and land-use change as a result of human activities, are perturbing the Earth’s climate. Microalgae-derived biofuels have been chased since the 1980s without success but, lately, a new biorefinery concept is receiving increasing attention. Here, we discuss the possible solutions to the many problems that make this process unrealised to date, considering also the possibility of including genetically modified (GM) organisms to improve the productivity and process economics. Currently, unless coupled to a service or higher value product production, biofuels derived from microalgae fail to achieve economic reality. However, provided sufficient development of new technologies, potentially including new or improved organisms to lower both production and processing costs, as well as looking at the utility of distributed versus centralised production models, algae biofuels could achieve an impact, off-setting our heavy reliance on petroleum-based liquid fuels.