Marine Algae Offers Sustainable Fuel Hope
Definitions
- biofuel: a fuel derived directly from living matter
- photobioreactor: is a bioreactor which incorporates some type of light source to provide photonic energy input into the reactor.
Scientist Yusuf Chisti believes that biofuels from seawater algae are the only alternative to fossil fuels that don't compromise food and freshwater supplies. On the other hand, Massey University in New Zealand says that the algae won't provide a sufficient amount of fuel. Yusuf Chisti says that growing the seawater algae is simple and can utilize waste carbon dioxide and standard fertilizer. However, it requires a large amount of fossil fuels and energy to produce the algal biofuels. Chisti disagrees, and he believes that the net energy gain from sunlight in production of algal fuels is positive. Currently, the algal biofuel is too expensive, so Chisti is growing oil-rich algae that are more economical. The way the algae is grown impacts their oil content. Chisti and his team of scientists are using photobioreactors which only take sunlight from the environment. The reactors could reduce cost and energy consumption.
Discussion
If the seawater algae produces enough energy, it could potentially be used as a replacement for fossil fuels. Unfortunately, fossil fuels impact the environment and have only a finite supply. The algae will have a much larger supply and reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. In addition, it is easy to grow. I chose this topic because this discovery eliminates two problems at once. It helps put an end to global warming and gives humans a back up plan after fossil fuels run out. I think it is great that Yusuf Chisti discovered the use of photobioreactors in order to increase productivity. This discovery could play a key role in solving world issues if successful.
Questions
How easy will it be to produce enough oil to be used on a daily basis like fossil fuels?
Once successful, will the price of the oil be significantly higher, lower or the same price as current fuel?
Citations
Extance, Andy. “Marine algae offer sustainable fuel hope.” environmentalresearchweb. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Oct. 2010. <http://environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/44012>.
Discussion
If the seawater algae produces enough energy, it could potentially be used as a replacement for fossil fuels. Unfortunately, fossil fuels impact the environment and have only a finite supply. The algae will have a much larger supply and reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. In addition, it is easy to grow. I chose this topic because this discovery eliminates two problems at once. It helps put an end to global warming and gives humans a back up plan after fossil fuels run out. I think it is great that Yusuf Chisti discovered the use of photobioreactors in order to increase productivity. This discovery could play a key role in solving world issues if successful.
Questions
How easy will it be to produce enough oil to be used on a daily basis like fossil fuels?
Once successful, will the price of the oil be significantly higher, lower or the same price as current fuel?
Citations
Extance, Andy. “Marine algae offer sustainable fuel hope.” environmentalresearchweb. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Oct. 2010. <http://environmentalresearchweb.org/cws/article/news/44012>.
