Potential of Micro and Macro Algae for Biofuel Production: A Brief Review

Abstract

The world seems to be raising its energy needs owing to an expanding population and people’s desire for higher living standards. Diversification biofuel sources have become an important energy issue in recent times. Among the various resources, algal biomass has received much attention in the recent years due to its relatively high growth rate, its vast potential to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate change, and their ability to store high amounts of lipids and carbohydrates. These versatile organisms can also be used for the production of biofuel. In this review, sustainability and the viability of algae as an up-coming biofuel feedstock have been discussed. Additionally, this review offers an overview of the status of biofuel production through algal biomass and progress made so far in this area.

Keywords

• Microalgae
• Macroalgae
• Biomass
• Lipid
• Biofuel
• Oil production
• Bioconversion
• Algaculture
• Wastewater treatment
• Malaysia