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In search for bio-fuel algae comes to the forefront as an environmental solution. However, algae might not be providing a purely green solution. Yet, it is a very strong source of biomass

Algae has a strong advantage over other potential bio-fuel such as soya beans, maize and oilseed rape (canola) as it does not threaten large farmland and thereby do not affect food supply. According to “Andres Clarens at the Unversity of Virginia in Charlottes ville”, algae has more harmful ramifications on the environment compared to conventional crops. The plant needs more energy to be grown in contrast to typical land plants making it only the next best choice for biomass.

Research has shown that the life cycle of algae cultivation is less efficient than conventional crops like canola, switchgrass and corn farming. This consequently shows that these typical crops have a lesser impact on the environment. The prime strategy, which can be used to address this downside of algae, is to enhanced cultivation methods.

Eventually, algae have higher environmental cost in the sense that it involves production of fertilizers. The substitution of fertilizers by wastewater is effective but not sufficient. To make algae grow faster than crops like canola only nutrient-rich household waste fertilizers would make the trick, such as concentrated urine. However, to extract concentrated urine new infrastructure would be required.

Some researchers say that bioreactors are already addressing the issue of efficiency. The Jacobs University in Bremen, Germany are innovating more cost-competitive reactor that will alleviate environment consequences of algal farms. This would re-position algae as an ideal source of biomass.

Source:
New Scientist

Environmental Science and Technology