Establishment of the Industry Based on Microalgae

Abstract

Efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions as a countermeasure against the global warming have been increasing worldwide. The direct conversion of CO₂ into useful organic matters by microalgae has been discussed as one of the most potential countermeasures. Despite the advantages of microalgae production over traditional agricultural production, the industrial uses of microalgal feedstock are limited. To expand the commercial uses of microalgal feedstock and to establish a new industry based on this sustainable feedstock, “establishment of industrial scale production” and “development of diverse commercial applications” are quite essential. For the establishment of industrial scale production, it is necessary to develop and demonstrate proper cultivation methods rather than simply using conventional open raceway pond system. In Malaysia, Chitose Laboratory Corp. is demonstrating large-scale production of microalgae using FP-PBR funded by NEDO. CHITOSE also launched and is leading MATSURI to develop diverse commercial applications using microalgal feedstock in collaboration with both public and private partners.

graphical abstract