In addition, this paper will address different factors that contribute to the algal biofuel capacity, such as strain selection, photosynthetic activity and lipid accumulation and productivity. Environmental impacts such as the land and water use of microalgae are inspected, in order to establish successful growth of microalgae and minimize their energy demand and effects on nature. The future of microalgae is not without challenges. However, advancements in bioprospecting, expanding our understanding of these organisms and experimenting different engineering methods from production to conversion can harness the potential of microalgal biofuels, reduce carbon footprint, and establish success in meeting the rising energy demand with renewable and green technology. .
Introduction and Background.
Sustainability is the key feature in management of natural resources, which considers the fuel efficiency, environmental concerns and economic benefits and costs. Our current society struggles from fossil fuel shortage and pollution, which call for explorations of different types of energy and multiple ways to produce clean energy for daily and industrial uses. Limited petroleum sources can lead to increasing/ unstable gasoline prices and compromise our national security and energy independence. Researchers begin to explore alternatives that can potentially reduce and replace traditional petroleum fuels and establish a more green society as well as promote energy and economic independence. In 2008, the world approximately used "11,295 tons of oil equivalents" (Brennan 2010). The consumption of energy accounted for 88% of fossil fuels, including 35% oil, 29% coal and 24% natural gas. Fossil fuels were reported to contribute the most greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, with approximately 29 Gtonnes of CO2 in 2006 (Brennan 2010). The threat of global climate changes and future energy cost and efficiency provide strong incentives to generate energy and fuels from biomass, a renewable material.
