Scaling up the production of biofuels made from algae to meet at least 5 percent — approximately 39 billion litres — of US 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 US meet its energy security needs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon… Login to continue

Login or sign up