Achievement

Research by several groups in our IGERT project is contributing to the knowledge base needed to make algal biofuels a more technically feasible, environmentally responsible, and economically viable energy source. Genomic and metabolomic studies are providing new insights about metabolic pathways of algae and cyanobacteria, critical to understanding how these organisms’ cellular processes may be directed to more efficient and abundant production of biofuels precursors , e.g. sugars and starches for bioethanol; lipids for processing into biodiesel. Additionally, for the cross-disciplinary research component of his IGERT training, Trainee N. Bennette has undertaken a critical review of existing Life Cycle Analyses of algal biofuels. Findings reveal that the siting of algal biorefineries near carbon point sources (e.g. power plants) may be critical to decreasing the total carbon footprint of algal biofuels and enhancing their potential as climate-friendly and sustainable energy sources.