Microalgal Valorization of CO<sub>2</sub>: A Sustainable Pathway to Biofuels and High-Value Chemicals
The escalating climate crisis and the imperative to transition from a fossil fuel-dependent economy demand transformative solutions for sustainable energy and carbon management. Biological CO<sub>2</sub> capture and utilization (CCU) using microalgae represents a particularly compelling...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Fermentation |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2311-5637/11/7/371 |
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| Summary: | The escalating climate crisis and the imperative to transition from a fossil fuel-dependent economy demand transformative solutions for sustainable energy and carbon management. Biological CO<sub>2</sub> capture and utilization (CCU) using microalgae represents a particularly compelling approach, capitalizing on microalgae’s high photosynthetic efficiency and remarkable product versatility. This review critically examines the principles and recent breakthroughs in microalgal CO<sub>2</sub> bioconversion, spanning strain selection, advanced photobioreactor (PBR) design, and key factors influencing carbon sequestration efficiency. We explore diverse valorization strategies, including next-generation biofuel production, integrated wastewater bioremediation, and the synthesis of value-added chemicals, underscoring their collective potential for mitigating CO<sub>2</sub> emissions and achieving comprehensive resource valorization. Persistent challenges, such as economically viable biomass harvesting, cost-effective scale-up, and enhancing strain robustness, are rigorously examined. Furthermore, we delineate promising future prospects centered on cutting-edge genetic engineering, integrated biorefinery concepts, and synergistic coupling with waste treatment to maximize sustainability. By effectively bridging carbon neutrality with renewable resource production, microalgae-based technologies hold considerable potential to spearhead the circular bioeconomy, accelerate the renewable energy transition, and contribute significantly to achieving global climate objectives. |
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| ISSN: | 2311-5637 |