Large-Scale Production of Biofuels Made From Algae Poses
Sustainability Concerns;
Further Innovations Needed to Reach Full Potential
Scaling up the production of biofuels made from algae to
meet at least 5 percent -- approximately 39 billion liters -- of U.S.
transportation fuel needs would place unsustainable demands on energy, water,
and nutrients, says a new report from the National Research Council. However, these concerns are not a definitive
barrier for future production, and innovations that would require research and
development could help realize algal biofuels' full potential.
Biofuels derived from algae and cyanobacteria are possible
alternatives to petroleum-based fuels and could help the U.S. meet its energy
security needs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide
(CO2). Algal biofuels offer potential
advantages over biofuels made from land plants, including algae's ability to
grow on non-croplands in cultivation ponds of freshwater, salt water, or
wastewater.