Abstract:
The development of microalgae-based
biofuels has emerged as a promising solution
to address the pressing global challenges of climate change, resource scarcity, and the need for
renewable energy sources. Microalgae possess unique capabilities that make them an attractive
feedstock for biofuel production, including their ability to capture and sequester carbon dioxide,
their efficient use of water and land resources, and the potential for them to utilize waste streams as
nutrient sources. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the environmental and economic
implications of microalgae-derived
fuels, highlighting the key benefits and remaining challenges. The
integration of synthetic biology to enhance microalgae strains, optimize cultivation and processing,
and diversify revenue streams is explored as a means to address the economic barriers to large-scale
commercialization. As research and development in this field continue to progress, the future prospects
of microalgae-based
biofuels are discussed, underscoring their potential to reshape the global energy
landscape towards a more sustainable and economically viable future. © 2024 Society of Industrial
Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
