by 
The Curious Bag
-
<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Algae Can Be an Alternate Fuel
The lipid oil in algae can be converted to biodiesel for use in planes and automobiles. Algae has many potential advantages as a fuel source. It is one of the fastest-growing plants, and the lipid oil used for conversion accounts for half of the entire plant's weight. In addition, if strategically placed near carbon-producing facilities, algae fuel plants could help offset CO2 emissions.
On the Other: Algae Fuel Development Is in Its Infancy
The U.S. government studied using algae for fuel over an 18-year period and initially determined it was not economical. It had concerns about land space, contamination and evaporation. Research involving indoor, controlled-environment, vertical-growth plants is still in its infancy.
Bottom Line
Researchers who are studying algae as a potential fuel source are generally optimistic about the possibilities. In fact, the U.S. government has restarted research on the topic. However, researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory feel the widespread use of algae or any other type of biofuel is at least years away.
Source:
Cnn: Algae: 'The ultimate in renewable energy'
Biz Journals: Seeing Green: Algae among new frontiers in renewable energy sources
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC