Sustainable biomass production from microalgae for food, feed and biofuels: An integrated approach

Microalgae hold assurance for the sustainable substitution of fossil fuels due to its high growth rates, ability to grow on non-arable land and biochemical compositions that can be easily converted to fuels using existing technology. The three major macromolecular components that can be extracted from microalgal biomass are lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins. These chemical components can be converted into a variety of fuel options such as alcohols, diesel, methane, and hydrogen. Open ponds and photobioreactors are used as standalone production systems or in combination as a two-stage process in the production of algal biomass. A novel method of plastic bag technology can be adopted for reducing investment and the production cost of microalgae. In the present work an integrated approach of micro-algae cultivation is proposed to ultimately address the sustainable production and environmental issues. The state-of-the-art of algal production for food, feed and biofuels is presented with emphasis on sustainable and economical approaches. The various sustainable cultivation techniques to enhance lipid and protein yields are listed. The optimum proportions of organic nutrients required for microalgae growth to is also presented. This integrated and economically viable approach of microalgae production has the potential to save India from malnutrition and fuel scarcity.