Algae – an alternative source of energy (Green Cell)

Abstract

Development is considered as an addressing topic for sustainable present requirements without jeopardizing future generations’ ability to meet their own needs. The majority of the energy we consume today is based on the combustion of fossil fuels, but the major issue is that these fossil fuels take millions of years to regenerate and become ready to be consumed by humans to provide the energy needed to move automobiles, and other needs. Around 80% of our energy needs are now satisfied by oil, coal, and gas. However, this system has a significant negative impact on the environment since it pollutes natural resources like water and releases damaging greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which indirectly affects humanity. Hence, an investigation is made on microalgae as an alternative energy source. Microalgae are one of the oldest living organisms on our planet and have more than 300,000 species. These can be considered a sustainable energy source for next-generation biofuels, which has the potential to reduce greenhouse gases. Algae can harvest energy from the sun through a photosynthesis process that converts a considerable amount of its carbohydrates into a valuable form of chemical energy and is further converted into electrical energy. Apart from that, oils extracted from algae can be converted to biodiesel. The remaining material can be used to create bioethanol, which can be processed to become a third-generation biofuel. Hence considering microalgae as an alternative source of power generation for the growing market and human needs, our idea is about developing a battery (green cell) that will use the above process to provide energy. This will be a revolutionary step in “sustainable technology & advancements in chemical industries.