Algae Biodiesel: Alternative Fuel in an Era of Crisis
The world is in an energy crisis. Fossil fuels are quickly running out even with the invention of new drilling techniques. A time is coming when there will be a dire need for an alternative energy source. Algae may be the source on the horizon humanity has been looking for. Using oil extracted from Algae, biofuel is being made that could replace fossil fuels permanently. Algae biofuel lacks the drawbacks other biofuels have such as required land and water use. Production of algae biofuel also is cost competitive and helps to mitigate atmospheric CO2.With new genetic engineering strategies available new metabolic pathways are being created that will increase lipid production and along with developing technology for harvesting, drying, and extracting, these new advances have really given algae a leg up. There are a few setbacks in industrial production, which are being discussed, but right now the new technology is looking very promising. This paper focuses on the need for the new technology and the technology itself, discussing the pros and cons of this possible new industry.
BIOL 499 Capstone
Paul Allee
P114
1 PM