Sustainable algal biorefinery: A review on current perspective on technical maturity, supply infrastructure, business and industrial opportunities

• Published in: Journal of environmental management 2024-11, Vol.370, p.122208, Article 122208
• Main Authors: Bello, Muhammadu, A. K., Modu, D.E.A, Boryo, A. A, Mahmoud, Ranganathan, Panneerselvam
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biofuels; Biomass; Biorefinery; Industrial infrastructures; Microalgae; Microalgae - growth & development; Microalgae - metabolism; Sustainability
• ISSN: 0301-4797; 1095-8630; 1095-8630
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122208

The environmental problems associated with the use of fossil fuels demand a transition to renewable sources for fuels and energy. A biorefinery approach has often been considered and microalgae as a feedstock has been pampered for its numerous possibilities to produce biofuels. Depending on the species and cultivation conditions, microalgae can produce fats, proteins and sugars. These raw materials can thus be utilized in the production of biofuels, bioenergy and biochemicals. For this reason, algal biofuels are considered as sustainable and renewable options for climate related challenges. However, there are many issues such as supply infrastructure, business and refinery opportunities, as well as their efficacy, tied to sustainable production of these energetic materials from algae. Thus, technical maturity, scalability, energy and material balance demands coupled with cost, nutrient resources demand, certification and legislation are needed to demonstrate the biorefinery opportunities of algal biomass valorisation. This paper therefore recommends that various consortiums tasked with algal biofuel projects should be chosen for a more holistic integrated multidisciplinary approach to address the advancement of algal biofuel technology. [Display omitted] •Technical maturity, supply infrastructure and opportunities of algal refinery are reviewed.•Algal biorefinery could lower costs and environmental impact towards circular economy.•Optimized processes with reliable infrastructure are needed for its commercialization.•Policy related algal biofuels needs to be supported through government incentive.