Microalgae – a Promising Raw Material for Biofuel Production

Abstract

The increasing concentration of greenhouse gas in the
atmosphere forces to look for new uses of renewable
energy in various sectors of the economy. In the transport
sector, the aim is to replace mineral fuels with biofuels
derived from biomass. Their production and use
are encouraged by the Paris Agreement, the Glasgow
Climate Pact and the recently adopted European Green
Deal. By 2030, 6% of fuel is expected to be replaced by
biofuels. Given that the development of conventional
first-generation biofuels from agricultural crops has
slowed down in recent years, the European Commission
encourages the introduction and expansion of the
production of second and third generation biofuels using
cellulosic biomass and its waste or other materials
unfit for human consumption. The search for new raw
materials is very important for the production of biodiesel,
rapeseed currently being the main raw material
in Europe. As the volume of biofuel production increases,
the area of crops grown for the production of biofuels
increases, and the natural balance of ecosystems is
threatened (increasing land demand can be met by the
destruction of natural habitats). In order to increase crop
yields, fertilisers are used for this purpose posing a risk
of contamination of groundwater and surface waters. In
addition, the production of biodiesel from vegetable oil
competes with the food industry.