by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Today we look at the Biotech Bull Market — what’s up, and why. How can you get your fair share in investing or capital raising? We are hunting for Value at AMRS, CDXS, REGI, GEVO, GPRE, TWST, BASF, CTVA, DSM, BYND and many more. Who’s
Algae/Other Aquatic Organisms/Seaweed

AlgalBBB 2021 will now be an online, fully interactive community allowing you to connect with other attendees, speakers and poster presenters in one place. You will be able to join the event via an online platform which will allow you to: Easily navigate the programme and live-stream sessions and presentations
by Chris Edwards (Engineering and Technology) Renewables may actually keep carbon fuels going for decades to come, but a new group of energy-rich countries will emerge. — … The question is what these new vehicles will use instead. For most European governments, the answer for most cars and light
(Algae Biomass Organization) Federal support for advanced algae R&D is on a solid foundation for 2021 with the recent passage of an omnibus appropriations bill that was included in last year’s COVID-19 relief legislation. These funds extend a long-standing tradition of supporting advanced algae technology development at the federal level,
(Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator) Austin Bachmann is an Energy Executive in Residence (EEIR) for Manta Biofuel, an MEIA Startup that has developed an innovative technology and process for producing algae-based biofuels. Austin is also the Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Business Development for Babington Technology, a leader in clean and efficient combustion
(Department of Energy) U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy (FE) announced plans to make $8 million in Federal funding available for cost-shared research, development, and testing of technologies that can utilize carbon dioxide (CO2) from power systems or other industrial sources for bio-mediated uptake by algal systems to

The course is aimed at students, technicians, early career researchers, industry professionals and algae enthusiasts. You are invited to register for this unique course comprising: Short lectures from our SAMS (Scottish Association for Marine Science) experts on: Taxonomy Nutrition Photosynthesis Legal Issues Algae in Biotechnology: Opportunities and Challenges Algal Sequencing
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Who are the key bioeconomy players in the new Biden Administration? What recent moves by the outgoing Trump Administration and Congress will set their budget and regulatory framework for 2021. What will the new Administration do, right away and this year? READ MORE 1. New
by Zhaki Abdullah (Channel News Asia) … Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) will play a major role in this new normal for aviation, said Jonathan Wood, Neste’s Europe and Asia-Pacific vice president for renewable aviation. The term refers to biofuels that can be derived from a variety of sources, ranging from used
(Ruhr University Bochum) Green algae have two almost identical hydrogen-producing enzymes. One has been researched for decades, the other received little attention – until recently. Hydrogen-producing enzymes, so-called hydrogenases, could be a source of regenerative energy. The RUB photobiotechnology working group has now characterized a hydrogenase from the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii that has so far
(SeeNews/Renewables Now) – French microalgae firm Fermentalg (EPA:FALG) saw its shares jump 35% on Tuesday after it announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with domestic waste management company Suez SA (EPA:SEV) to create an equally-owned joint venture for carbon capture through the development of algae photobioreactors. The
(Algae Biomass Organization) … Our collective effort has resulted in record-breaking policy support, including: $70 million for algae industry research, development, and demonstration in 2020 Congressional appropriations for DOE’s Bioenergy Technology Office, Office of Fossil Energy, and Office of Science. $110 million has been proposed in the US House of Representatives for
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Wastewater treatment is a huge problem with about 30 billion gallons per day in the U.S. You’ve got pathogens in the water that could reach drinking water supplies. You’ve got nutrients causing excess algae growth. You’ve got organic matter causing low dissolved oxygen. But MicroBio
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The $1.4 trillion spending package includes appropriation for Fiscal Year 2021, the COVID stimulus package, extensions of popular tax credits that otherwise expired on December 31st, and the Energy Act of 2020, a $35B version of a larger energy bill that has been drifting around
by Ed Adamczyk (UPI) A plan to use sustainable sources for up to 50 percent of military aviation fuel was announced by British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace this week. The British Ministry of Defense on Saturday said it would look to algae, alcohol, household waste, wood and biomass as potential sources of fuel for the
by Tom Luljak (WUWM) Giant kelp is usually found thousands of miles from Milwaukee. It’s known for being an incredibly fast-growing seaweed in the Pacific Ocean. But recently, scientists have learned that the kelp could be a huge source for biofuel. That’s where a UWM scientist, Felipe Alberto, comes into
(U.S. Department of Energy) DOE’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) develops technologies that convert domestic biomass and waste resources into fuels, products, and power to enable affordable energy, economic growth, and innovation in renewable energy and chemicals production. This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) DE-FOA-0002423 will support BETO’s highest priority research and development
by Hannah DelSordo* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The December 15th webinar discussed how natural gas utilities are developing the renewable natural gas (RNG) market in a decarbonizing world. This event featured speaker Philip Sheehy, the technical director of transportation and energy at ICF, Josh Linton strategic planning analyst at ONE Gas,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) There’s greenwashing and then there’s proof of sustainability. So what’s the difference? Check out RSB’s slide guide on how they help ensure sustainable aviation fuel or SAF is actually sustainable. From their involvement in the aviation sector to examples of biobased and recycled carbon feedstocks
(Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.) Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL; President & CEO: Junichiro Ikeda) and euglena Co., Ltd. (Euglena; President: Mitsuru Izumo; Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo) today announced a successful sea trial in the Port of Nagoya of the MOL Group-operated tugboat 13 Tamashio using next-generation renewable biodiesel fuel developed by
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Briefing Series: By Air, Land, and Sea: Navigating the Climate Future — The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) held a briefing series on climate mitigation and adaptation in the transportation sector. The series covered ports, aviation, and public transit. As commercial aviation recovers from the COVID-19 contraction, it will
(U.S. Department of Energy) Today, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced up to $35 million in funding for bioenergy feedstock technologies and algae research and development. This funding opportunity announcement (FOA) supports the White House priority for advancing the domestic bioeconomy, as well as the Bioenergy Technologies Office’s goals of
(U.S. Department of Energy/Forbes) Devinn Lambert, a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) technical manager, made the 2021 Forbes 30 Under 30 Energy List for her work in energy research. As a technology manager for BETO’s Advanced Algal Systems program, Devinn oversees research grants on a team
by Tim Schley (Penn State News) New approach to nutrient management could make money for farmers and land managers; Best management practices for reducing runoff and other nutrient losses in agriculture have been difficult to implement, according to Penn State researchers. The team is hoping that duckweed could help make
(American Institute of Physics/EurekAlert!) An investigation of nine types of microalgae for use as an energy source in commercial biodiesel production based on laboratory-scale data — Microalgae are a promising source of energy to replace fossil fuels, as they have several advantages over conventional crops used for commercial biodiesel. Microalgae have
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) To go along with our “green” holiday theme today, check out this slide guide on how iWi’s Omega-3 made from algae can go a long way in making us healthier in a much greener way. iWi skips the fish and krill and goes directly to
(University of Bristol) Scientists have built tiny droplet-based microbial factories that produce hydrogen, instead of oxygen, when exposed to daylight in air. The findings of the international research team based at the University of Bristol and Harbin Institute of Technology in China, are published today in Nature Communications. Normally, algal cells
by Mary Ann Showalter (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory) PNNL’s hydrothermal liquefaction shows promise for turning harmful algal blooms into biocrude — … Algal blooms can also raise treatment costs for drinking water suppliers, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center (ERDC)
by Fintan Burke (Horizon Magazine/Phys.Org) Using light as an energy source, photosynthetic microalgae can be used to produce products like biofuels and cosmetics. But algae grown in a reactor block out the light on which they feed. New reactor designs could solve this problem and help the industry move forward. Photosynthetic
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) This week, Manta Biofuels has launched a crowd investment campaign on Republic and began reaching out to colleagues, business associates, mentors and friends, offering them a chance to invest in this growing business. Dedicated to doing their part to fight climate change, Manta Biofuels
by Benjamin Storrow (E&E News) … “Algae. A renewable source of energy. ExxonMobil is researching it. To revolutionize biofuels. For more energy. And fewer emissions.” Biofuels represent one of Exxon Mobil’s primary answers to climate change. In television ads and presentations to investors, the company showcases it as an example of
by Rebecca Pool (Engineering and Technology) A growing band of scientists and engineers wants to feed and fuel the world with seaweed. –… The last decade has seen a surge in seaweed aquaculture, driven by a rising interest in using the aquatic plant as a biofuel. It’s easy to see
(Chiclana City Council) The Mayor of Chiclana José María Román, the Municipal Delegate for Mobility José Manuel Vera, the President of Ferrosite Jesús Salmón, and the Manager of Belizón and Rodríguez Nicolás Rodríguez visited the facilities that host the All-Gas project, at the El Torno WWTP, to present the first bus
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … Mark P. Allen, Vice President of Integrated Carbon Solutions at Accelergy, shared this illuminating slide guide on how Accelergy’s TerraSync is cost competitive, has soil health benefits, gobbles up CO2 better than any other green goblin, and more. READ MORE
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) You’ve probably heard of Honeywell UOP, but did you know they are working on making commercial renewable aviation biofuels a reality? At ABLC Digital, they shared this illuminating slide guide on their latest projects, including ones with AltAir, United Airlines, World Energy, and others. Also take
(Teagasc) What is the bioeconomy? Is it relevant to me, my sector, my business, the place where I live or my farm? What is unique about it? How does Ireland compare relative to other European countries? And how can I get involved? These are questions that a series of maps, released
edited by Adrian Bonilla-Petriciolet, Gade Pandu Rangaiah , Christian V. Stevens (Wiley) A comprehensive overview of current developments and applications in biofuels production — Process Systems Engineering for Biofuels Development brings together the latest and most cutting-edge research on the production of biofuels. As the first book specifically devoted to process systems
(U.S. Department of Energy) Today, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced over $27 million in funding for 12 projects that will support the development of advanced plastics recycling technologies and new plastics that are recyclable-by-design. As part of DOE’s Plastics Innovation Challenge, these projects will also help improve existing recycling
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Argonne National Laboratory’s Systems Assessment Center on Oct. 9 announced the 2020 release of the suite of Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Technologies (GREET) models. GREET is a life-cycle analysis tool that can be used to examine the energy and environmental effects
by Dan Colover (Gulf News/S&P Global Platts) Airlines are making such a switch, but costs will be prohibitive initially — … IATA believes the key to the aviation sector combatting climate change is making investments in carbon offsetting, sustainable fuels and green technologies – and not taxes, which it has
by Steve Zabarnick (University of Dayton Research Institute) With increasing demand for a greater variety of sustainable alternative aviation fuels, the importance of a systematic pathway for the accurate testing, validation and approval of alternative jet fuels has never been more important. Part of this process is the FAA-sponsored “D4054 Clearinghouse”
by Brian Wang (Next Big Future) Algae could be used for fuel production on Mars and it would also produce oxygen on Mars. It would also produce fertilizer for growing crops on Mars. Georgia Tech aims to reduce the Entry Descent Landing (EDL) mass of a crewed mission to Mars by
by Mitchel Jordon (The Trent Online) … Algae are some of the most fundamental components in biofuel manufacturing processes. Biofuel manufacturers can easily grow algae naturally in bioreactors or ponds that offer a closed-tank environment. Read on to understand why Algae is a crucial ingredient in biofuel manufacturing. Algae is more Productive than
(Genetic Literacy Project/ISAAA) Hiroshima University researchers developed a highly efficient genome editing system for microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica, which is a potential source of biodiesel. Algae gather high concentrations of lipids through photosynthesis and these lipids can be used as feedstocks for sustainable new energies called biodiesels. Nannochloropsis species are microalgae that produce high amounts of lipids. However, production
(Algae Biomass Organization) …ABO also announced at the Summit the 2020 Algae Industry Awards, presented to companies and individuals that have made extraordinary contributions to the science and business of algae. Additionally, six student scientists were presented with this year’s Young Algae Researcher Awards for their contributions and submissions to Summit’s
(Algae Biomass Organization) The virtual Algae Biomass Summit concluded last week, and the most significant takeaway was that the new online format provided a more dynamic collaboration than ever before, and with larger group of participants spread across the globe. Speakers, poster presenters, exhibitors, sponsors, and hundreds of attendees gathered continue the momentum
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The 106-billion-gallon global (21-billion-gallon domestic) commercial jet fuel market is projected to grow to over 230 billion gallons by 2050. Cost-competitive sustainable alternative jet fuels for aviation are needed to decouple carbon growth from market growth. With this in mind, the U.S. Department of Energy
by Jeff Kart (Forbes) …The researchers working on this are from University of California, Riverside (UCR) and it’s part of a two-year project. Those involved are being tight-lipped about the methods they’ll be using (pending the upcoming publication of research on a closely related project). What’s been announced so far: The work
(Nikkei Asian Review) Southeast Asian production rises while palm oil waste also takes the spotlight — Japanese biofuel companies are expanding their production of fuel from sources such as algae and palm oil waste, despite the current lack of demand from the aviation industry and falling oil prices due to the
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) hosted the 2019 Project Peer Review on March 4–7, 2019, in Denver, Colorado. During the event, 447 projects in BETO’s research portfolio were presented in 14 simultaneous review sessions and two poster sessions. Projects were systematically reviewed by
by Bob Yirka (Phys.Org) A team of researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences has found a way to speed up photosynthesis in algae by applying a conjugated polymer. In their paper published in the journal Science Advances, the group describes experiments with applying polymers to algae and what they learned from
by Ankita Singh (The Logical Indian) The ministry said in that the use of microalgae has been strongly considered for the production of biofuels. — Indian scientists have developed low-cost biodiesel from microalgae under the INSPIRE programme of ministry of science and technology. The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (Inspire) is
(Biofuels Digest) Recorded presentations for your on-demand review and enjoyment. Just Pick and Click! On BioChannelTV RENEWABLE DIESEL & DME Saola Energy – Adam Belyamani Axens- David Schwalje Oberon – Rebecca Boudreaux Honeywell UOP-Dan Szeezil NextChem-Valerio Coppini Velocys – Jeff McDaniel ENGINE TECH What if everything with a diesel
by Peter Murphy (University at Buffalo) UB engineering professor Ian Bradley and his research group are collaborators on a $2 million project funded by the U.S. Department of Energy that will study the use of algae to purify wastewater while simultaneously producing biomass for fuel production. The project is led by
(Biofuels Digest) Scipio Biofuels was founded to use the company’s innovative algaculture technology to do its part to alleviate the effects of Carbon Dioxide emissions upon the environment by consuming and converting those emissions in large quantities into biofuels, bulk algae, algae products and co-products. The problems our technology addresses are
by Steve Csonka (Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuel Initiative) Today is National Aviation Day in the U.S., a recognition instituted by FDR in 1939, honoring the birthday of Orville Wright, but also creating awareness of, and celebrating the progress and vision associated with, the aviation industry. Today, that industry has become
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) The State of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by Steve Csonka (CAAFI) Slide deck available here. Webinar recording available here.
(U.S. Department of Energy) … The Federal Activities Report on the Bioeconomy: Algae is a follow on report to the BR&D Board’s Federal Activities Report on the Bioeconomy that summarizes Bioeconomy Initiative activities for the algae stakeholder community. Download the report Federal Activities Report on the Bioeconomy: Algae READ
(EU Science Hub) The latest brief prepared by the JRC for the European Commission’s Knowledge Centre for Bioeconomy (KCB) informs about algae biomass production in the EU and globally, and maps algae production units in Europe. It reports increasing production levels and opportunities for development to meet growing demand
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) If you missed last week’s DigestConnect webinar, have no fear, the full deck is here! From 11 pathways on who’s doing what, how and with what, 21 projects and who’s running them and where, 13 fast emerging projects and who’s converting, constructing, planning and where,
(Insider.co.uk) Innovation body’s Bioeconomy Cluster Builder aims to help firms unlock £8 million funding — … “We want to encourage companies, start-ups and spin-outs to look at value chains and other opportunities for the production of renewable biological resources, and their conversion into everyday products, that will help to contribute to
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … Aequors green, non-toxic TSCA-approved ingredients can lower costs and improve the profitability of biofuel production. By dispersing clumping and killing bacteria that attack yeast, Aequors treatments boosts algae and yeast biomass by up to 40% in half the time, preclude the need for antibiotics
(EnergyMarketPrice.com) Seaweed can be used as a low carbon foodstuff or as a sustainable biomass fuel — A Belgian wind farm on the North Sea claims it will become the first in the world to grow seaweed between its wind turbines. The Belgian-Dutch consortium “Wier & Wind” will test in the next
(U.S. Department of Energy) … A challenge for algal biofuel development is finding strains of algae best suited for producing copious amounts of oil quickly and under industrial-scale conditions. Maintaining pond health is also challenging—deteriorating health in a small fraction of algal cells within a pond can quickly lead to the
(Fuels and Lubes Daily) Chevron Lummus Global (CLG) and Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) announced the successful startup of Euglena Co., Ltd.’s integrated Biofuels Isoconversion unit in Yokohama, Japan. CLG is a joint venture between Chevron and Lummus Technology. The 5 barrel per day (BPD), first-of-its-kind demonstration unit, employs the Biofuels Isoconversion technology,
by Aman Azhar (The Real News) With 17% of US energy jobs gone in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, a recent industry report suggests that over half a million ‘clean energy’ workers are unemployed despite nationwide efforts to jumpstart the economy. Released by BW Research in partnership with E2 and E4TheFuture,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What companies are investing and working in algae today? What about algae’s biomass production? The big players and partner industries? Initiatives for growing the algae industry? How does the 2018 farm bill dramatically expand support for algae agriculture? Check out Rebecca White from Algae Biomass Organization’s
by Hannah C. (The Science Times) … Furthermore, the costs of culturing, collecting, and extracting algae can be countered by a safer way of milking the algae. Alice Uchida and Masaki Ihara led a team from Shinshu University, Japan in the development of cultivating microalgae while tackling three major issues of milking algae. The
(Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University/EurekAlert!) Project to create a resource and CO2-neutral energy closed-loop technology from microalgae Chlorella sorokiniana and duckweed Lemna minor. — Researchers of Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University(SPbPU) in collaboration with Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH) completed an international joint project to create a resource and CO2-neutral energy closed-loop technology
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) funds research and development (R&D) on technologies necessary for the deployment and production of costcompetitive bioenergy, primarily biofuels. Results of experimental efforts are periodically compiled and compared with benchmark technology designs to assess overall progress. This report
by Todd Woody (Bloomberg Green) To reignite the industry, biofuels need the type of government incentives that allowed solar and wind companies to flourish, analysts say. — … Technology from Honeywell’s subsidiary UOP had refined the camelina into renewable jet fuel, and as we reached cruising altitude executives settled into wide
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) … In today’s Digest, how a brewery in Australia is utilizing algae that eats up CO2 and spits out oxygen, all the cool things you can make with beer and liquor production waste (going beyond ethanol and biofuel), how blockchain is helping track beer
(Karlsruhe Institute of Technology/Phys.Org) Cyanobacteria hardly need any nutrients and use the energy of sunlight. Bathers are familiar with these microorganisms—often incorrectly called “blue-green algae”—as they often occur in waters. A group of researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has discovered that the multicellular species Phormidium lacuna can
(Amazon) Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced The Climate Pledge Fund to support the development of sustainable technologies and services that will enable Amazon and other companies to meet The Climate Pledge—a commitment to be net zero carbon by 2040. This dedicated venture investment program—with an initial $2 billion in funding—will back visionary companies whose products and services will facilitate
by Conrad Prabhu (Oman Daily Observer/Zawya) UK-based SuSeWi is leading the development of a 100,000-tons per annum capacity farm in the Sultanate — Oman hopes to make a landmark foray into the multibillion dollar global algae farming industry with a maiden investment in a mega project on the South Al
(Neste) Neste launches a new research project which aims at developing sustainable and globally scalable raw materials and technology solutions for transportation fuels and the production of chemicals and polymers. These new solutions decrease the use of crude oil and tackle climate change. The new technologies will be based on
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Everyone wants to dominate the world, right? But Neste wants to do it in a nice way by becoming the global leader in renewable and circular solutions. There are 3 ways they are working on this lately – 1) expanding global reach with new offices in
by Carrie Talus (New Mexico Consortium) New Mexico Consortium scientist, Joseph Msanne, along with colleagues Shawn Starkenburg and Juergen Polle, recently published an article titled An Assessment of Heterotrophy and Mixotrophy in Scenedesmus and its Utilization in Wastewater Treatment, in the June 2020 issue of Algal Research. This review looks at whether
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Everything’s better with biology, so here’s The Digest’s newly released Top 15 case studies of today’s hottest technology and new markets for traditional oil and gas refiners. What are our top picks? Spoiler Alert: The top 15 may include converting oil refineries to biorefineries, something to
(Advanced Biofuels USA) Since 2011, one of Advanced Biofuels USA’s most popular publications has been “What’s the Difference between Biodiesel and Renewable (Green) Diesel?” The update of this paper has been expanded to answer the question, “What Renewable Fuels Can Be Used in Compression Ignition Engines?” This paper begins by
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) CAAFI is happy to announce the latest industry alternative jet fuel (AJF) Production Pathway approvals, and ASTM publication of: 1) A new ASTM D7566 alternative jet fuel production pathway: ASTM D7566 Annex A7 – Hydroprocessed Hydrocarbons (HH-SPK, or HC-HEFA). This addition describes the hydroprocessing of
(GreenAir Online) Fuel standards organisation ASTM International has approved the seventh technology pathway for the production and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Annex A7 to ASTM’s SAF specification D7566 establishes approval for a type of synthesised paraffinic kerosene derived from hydroprocessed hydrocarbons, esters and fatty acids. The standard provides
(Massive Science/The Salk Institute) … Plants — historically speaking, our most reliable friends — have evolved to capture and store atmospheric carbon dioxide. They use energy from the sun to convert CO2 and water into sugar and other important molecules, generating oxygen as a byproduct that sustains life on our
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … In today’s Digest, Vanacker answers how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting Neste’s operations at the moment, his outlook for renewable fuels, whether fighting climate change is still on Neste’s agenda, an exclusive Digest interview with Jason Blake from Neste’s Aviation Feedstock Business Unit, and
by Christy Sterner (U.S. Department of Energy) How ATEC leads the way toward educating the next generation of bioeconomy professionals. The Algae Technology Educational Consortium (ATEC) is a collaboration between the Algae Foundation, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO), and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Together, these organizations have created many widely accessible workforce
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A new technology that produces a doubling of overall biomass in algae and 40 percent in camelina has appeared on the horizon, and I’d like to draw your attention to this work in The Plant Journal and this one in Nature Research. If you’ve been a fan of
(University of Bath/Phys.Org) UK researchers have developed a cheap and simple way of creating biofuel and fertiliser from seaweed, whilst removing plastic from the oceans and cleaning up tourist beaches in the Caribbean and Central America. Millions of tonnes of rotting seaweed washes up on beaches of Mexico, the Caribbean and
by Brian Wang (Next BIG Future) NASA NIAC fund work to use bioorganisms to perform atmospheric in-situ resource utilization (ISRU). Utilizing 100% ISRU for propellant production, they aim to reduce the Entry Descent Landing (EDL) mass of a crewed mission to Mars by approximately 7 tons. This technology will enable long-term human
(Algae Biomass Organization) The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has released the first European standard for algae and algae products, an important milestone for establishing common baselines for an industry that is beginning to impact more markets than ever. Known as EN 17399:2020 ‘Algae and algae products – Terms and definitions’, the
(Advanced Biofuels USA) The first episode of “Just A Minute or So about Renewable Fuels” focuses on what might be used to make renewable fuels. Students, teachers, or anyone interested in renewable fuels can see in a 3-minute slide presentation narrated by Advanced Biofuels USA’s Joanne Ivancic with pictures of
by Nikki Macdonald (Stuff) … It was one of many pieces of breathless hype to come out of the Nelson company – the fuel was actually 95 per cent ordinary diesel and 5 per cent bio-diesel. But the stunt received worldwide attention and spurred a flurry of investment, research and
(University of San Diego Scripps Institute of Oceanography) Biologists and engineers design 3D printed corals that could help energy production and coral reefs — Researchers at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Jacobs School of Engineering at UC San Diego, and the University of Cambridge, U.K., have 3D printed coral-inspired
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) has released the “Bio-Restore Workshop Summary Report.” This report summarizes the results of a BETO-sponsored public workshop held at Argonne National Laboratory on September 25–26, 2019. The Bio-Restore Workshop brought together experts to
(Boss Magazine) … What else algae can suck up, though, is carbon dioxide. When harnessed for carbon capture, algae could become a force in combatting climate change. … Like other plants, algae take in carbon dioxide during photosynthesis. In fact, really all that’s required for algae to thrive are CO2,
by Donavan Lim (S&P Global Platts) Finnish refiner and biodiesel producer Neste expects the worldwide demand for renewable diesel to surge in the next decade, driven by increased demand for sustainable road and air transport as well as renewable chemical and polymer products. The global renewable diesel demand is estimated
(Mazda) Mazda is currently involved in joint research projects and studies as part of an ongoing industry-academia-government collaboration to promote the wide-spread adoption of biofuels from microalgae growth. As part of its ‘Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030’ long-term technology development programme, the company is committed to reducing its average ‘Well-to-Wheel’ CO2 emissions to 50%
by Ike Levine, Tiffany Cannis and Marissa Nalley (Algae Industry Magazine) In these turbulent times, when many educational programs are in limbo, we wondered what is happening to algae education? For a perspective, we asked leaders of the Algae Foundation how they are tracking the past and planning for the
by Asanga Padmaperuma (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory) … Today, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Laboratories study the development of chemicals and fuels with the use of cost-effective, renewable carbon sources, while working closely with the bioenergy industry. In support of the DOE mission, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) experts in
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) While things are topsy turvy around the world right now, Part 1 to this visual National Biodiesel Board slide guide takes us on an industry overview, the diesel vehicle market forecast, the U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel market (and yes, they are different!), a look
by Shelley Schlender (VOA) … The tiny single-celled, plantlike organisms known as algae are more efficient than other organisms at converting sunlight and carbon dioxide into the raw materials needed for foods, products and fuels. And not just a few specialized fuels. At the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado,
by John Cumbers (Forbes) … At the head of Reliance is Mukesh Ambani. As chairman, managing director, and largest shareholder of Reliance, he’s the richest man in Asia, with a reputation as a shrewd investor. He is also a self-described “big believer that technology is the biggest driver of human
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Wild type algal strains don’t have the productivity and robust growth characteristics needed to push algae forward as a biofuel feedstock, but researchers are working on changing that. Stephen Mayfield from the University of California San Diego, shared the latest research developments at the U.S.
by Karly Graham (The State News) Michigan State researchers are testing algae hibernation to optimize the plant’s ability to be used for biofuel production. Using algae to produce biofuels is a question of economic feasibility, Tomomi Takeuchi, a research assistant in MSU-DOE Plant Research Laboratory said. Algae produce oil as a response to adverse
by Giuliano Dragone, Abraham A.J.Kerssemakers, Jasper L.S.P.Driessen, Celina K.Yamakawa, Larissa P.Brumano, Solange I.Mussatto (Bioresource Technology) Advanced biorefineries are seen as key to implement a sustainable biobased economy. • Total valorization of biomass can boost the industrial implementation of biorefineries. • Tailor-made enzymes may increase process performance, reducing loadings and costs.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Everyone wants more productive algal strains – but how do you get them? Can you advance the technology enough to get economical, large-scale algal biofuel production? Ron Chance and Paul Roessler, both of Algenol Biotech, shared this illuminating presentation at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Scott Twary from Los Alamos National Laboratory is working on how to design an integrated strain improvement platform for algae with faster production and to meet BETO’s mission goals of developing technologies for algae strain improvement to meet biomass yield and productivity goals. Get the latest
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Eliminating cost and site-location constraints –sounds like something we all want. But there’s a project working on getting rid of those constraints posed by the supply of concentrated CO2 to microalgae farms while simultaneously achieving high seasonal productivities. Their objectives include improving scale and productivity of
by Igor Houwat and Layne Cameron (Michigan State University) Algae have the potential to become a sustainable source of high value biofuels and oils. A big hurdle that holds us back from mass producing algae feedstocks is that they make more oil when stressed out, like during starvation. When stressed, algae
by Navid Moheimani and Parisa Bahri (Naked Scientists) … Our team at Murdoch University Algae R&D Centre has developed a unique process that uses algae to treat effluent. The process involves first passing the effluent through an anaerobic digester, which converts the organic material in the waste into biogas (methane).
by Matt Bungard (Sydney Morning Herald) One of Sydney’s most popular beermakers is using algae to make its products entirely carbon neutral, and encourage other breweries to do the same. Young Henrys has installed a 400-litre ‘bioreactor’ of algae at its brewery in Newtown to offset carbon emissions from its beer production.
by Steven Ashby (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory/Tri-City Herald) Algae is often seen as a yucky muck, but it may soon join crop waste and cooking oils as an important ingredient in the recipe for renewable biofuels. At the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, our biofuels research explores many homegrown fuel
by Mariana Labatte (Innovations in Agriculture Missourian Extension) MU computer science professor Jianlin Cheng sees the future of energy in green algae. The small aquatic plants that add a layer of scum to ponds and pools have a beneficial side — green algae can convert sunlight into energy and store it in
by Akhtar Ali (The Express Tribune) … There are six possible raw material routes for making biodiesel. These are vegetable sources – palm oil, rapeseed, sunflower, cottonseed, canola, jojoba, jatropha and others; waste vegetable oil or used cooking oil as it is called; animal fats like tallow, lard, yellow grease and
by Patrick Amunavi (farmers.co.ke) Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology alumni, and Innovator, Erick Gathirwa Kariuki, has developed a biofuel innovation by harnessing the water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) into a bioethanol product that can be used as cooking fuel in households. Erick Kariuki, who graduated in from JKUAT with a Bachelor
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced an investment of nearly $100 million in funding for research and development of bioenergy technologies. Issued on behalf of DOE’s Bioenergy Technology Office, topic areas within the FY20 Bioenergy Technologies Multi-Topic Funding Opportunity Announcement support the U.S. bioeconomy by reducing the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) There’s a lot of flat, dry land in the U.S. but researchers at Arizona State University and others are looking at how that land could support biofuel production. How about evaporation-resistant reactors coupled with thermotolerant, high-productivity mixotrophic algae? Check out this Slide-Guide from P.I. Peter Lammers
(New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection) The Department of Environmental Protection is making $13.5 million in funding available for local projects that will improve water quality and help prevent, mitigate and manage harmful algal blooms (HABs) in New Jersey’s lakes and ponds, Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe announced today (December 19, 2019),
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Algae is a wondrous thing…and here are 10 reasons why. But that’s not all! What about polyurethanes? Fully renewable polyurethanes from unsaturated lipids and protein-derived amine cross linkers? Check out this Slide-Guide from NREL’s Philip Pienkos presentation at ABLC NEXT in San Francisco where he shares
Microalgae Applications and Cultivation: The Digest’s 2019 Multi-Slide Guide to mBio’s Algae Biomass
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) From microalgae applications that include adding value to feed, shrimp larvae culturing, bioplastics and anti-bacterial constituents and other applications, do you know about the latest in algae cultivation technologies? Check out what this team from MicroBio Engineering and Cal Poly State University shared during this
(Advanced Biofuel Center/AltEnergyMag.com) The Advanced Biofuel Center is a bioenergy crop research and development company that has established the Biodiesel Business Academy to provide quality, impartial, informative and enjoyable advanced-level training with enhanced technology in the field of biodiesel production. The knowledge arm of Advanced Biofuel Center (ABC), Biodiesel Business
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A mere “The Year in Rewind” as we sail into 2020? Not the good ship Digest! Instead, we dust off our crystal ball and offer our predictions for the year ahead. As the sunset of 2019 gives way to the dawn of 2020, once again roll the
(Universitas Airlangga News/QS WOW News) …The government plans to allocate fossil fuel energy subsidies by reducing them and using renewable energy resources with a focus on biodiesel development. Regarding this issue, Prof. Dr. Purkan, S.Si., M.Si., Professor of Chemistry at Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) conducted
by Umar Ali (Power Technology) The ENBIO project uses excess energy from wind turbines to power 16 1,000-litre photo-bioreactors which grow algae that can then be used for biofuels. The project demonstrates how green technologies can work together, but can it make algae-derived fuel competitive? We find out more. The
by Fred Knapp (KCUR) … (Paul) Black chairs UNL’s (University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Innovation Campus) Biochemistry Department and is a founding member of a company called Vestal W20, which is trying to use algae to remove excess nitrates out of water. “What’s happened over the hundred-plus years of putting nitrogen fertilizer on
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This week news came out of a partnership between Novozymes and Green Plains to use biological technology to extract more value from corn protein, at what used to be known as corn ethanol plants, but with this news we might finally and forever begin to think
(ITOCHU Corporation) ITOCHU Corporation (headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo; Yoshihisa Suzuki, President and COO; hereinafter “ITOCHU”) announced today that it has decided to conduct an overseas demonstration project (hereinafter the “Demonstration Project”) in collaboration with euglena Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo; Mitsuru Izumo, President: hereinafter “euglena Co.”) to culture euglena
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) intends to issue, on behalf of the Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO), a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) entitled “FY20 Bioenergy Technologies Multi-Topic FOA”. BETO develops technologies that convert domestic biomass and waste resources into fuels, products, and power to
(Algae Biomass Organization) Algae production technologies are gearing up to provide biomass that can be used in markets that are projected to reach hundreds of billions of dollars. To help meet that opportunity ABO ‘s sister organization, The Algae Foundation, is coordinating a number of projects that are educating and training the
(Market Watch/Market Insights Report) The Algae Biofuel Market Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis along with Major Segments and Forecast, 2019-2025. The Algae Biofuel Market report is a valuable source of insightful data for business strategists. It provides the industry overview with growth analysis and historical & futuristic cost, revenue, demand and supply data (as applicable).
(TERI) Airborne nanoparticles from diesel vehicles are even more harmful to human health than PM2.5 and PM10. TERI has suggested modifications to India’s bio-diesel policy to reduce nanoparticle emissions — Changing the process of producing bio-diesel could help reduce tailpipe emissions of nanoparticles, contributing to improving air quality, according to a
by Bruno Colling Klein, Mateus Ferreira Chagas, Marcos Djun Barbosa Watanabe, Antonio Bonomia Rubens Maciel Filho (Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews) RenovaBio Program is a promising policy for biofuels adoption in Brazil. • Economic and environmental assessment of co-located sugarcane-microalgae plants. • Microalgae biodiesel replaces fossil diesel in verticalized production of sugarcane. • Low
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) If you missed ABLC NEXT in San Francisco, let’s go back to the future and look at BECCS – Bio-Energy with Carbon Capture and Storage – and examine the challenges, how it is fueled by methane and what methane pyrolysis can do, how we can go
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … It’s Thanksgiving in the U.S. today and many are gathering around the table, chatting about the latest news, like the new Air Protein – air-based food – and whether it will be served alongside…or instead of…the turkey next year. Or perhaps the dinner conversation
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) “The measure of how disruptive Synthetic Biology is lies in the applications, the use cases and relevance to consumers,”according to Checkerspot which uses biology and chemistry to generate novel building blocks. Their ingredients include custom oils like tri-, di- and mono-glycerides, proteins and peptides, micronutrients, and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The commercialization of algae has several challenges, but Lieve M. Laurens from National Renewable Energy Laboratory gave this illuminating presentation at the DOE’s BETO 2019 Project Peer Review that details how they are trying to reduce the cost of algal biofuels by increasing intrinsic algal biomass
(Dutch News) Researchers in Denmark have achieved speeds of up to 80 kph using a car powered by Dutch biofuel made from seaweed. The seaweed fuel was produced by scientists at the TNO research centre in Petten and at Wageningen University and is part of an EU-funded project to develop
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Not only is the Manta Biofuel system a way to grow, harvest and process algae into oil that can be used for heating or powering heavy duty engines or ocean-going vessels, or as a feedstock for refineries; Dr. Ryan Powell sees the Manta Biofuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Science by Nature and Nature by Science is what it’s all about for Algenesis. Their goal is for 100% renewable, biodegradable, recyclable polyurethane that can be used for everything from flip flops to surfboards. Michael Burkart from UC San Diego and Algenesis Materials shared this illuminating
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A Wonder Woman Power Duo spoke at the recent ABLC NEXTin San Francisco and in case you missed it, this is one presentation you won’t want to miss. It’s got the goods on green chemicals and how we can replace toxic biocides and antibiotics in
(Biofuels International) … One of the most critical steps in the bioprocessing of algae to optimise economy and yield is the cell disruption stage. The functionality of algae biochemicals must be maintained while obtaining high disruption yields, hence the need for an efficient, scalable process. High pressure homogenisation (HPH) offers
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Streamlined Optimization of Filamentous Arthrospira/SpirulinaTraits (SOFAST) is looking at algae in a whole new way. Lumen Bioscience in particular has been working on a unique, patented technology to genetically enhance Arthrospira for improved growth and biomass composition for biofuels and bioproducts. Damian Carrieri from Lumen Bioscience gave
(Algae Biomass Organization) A recent report by the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES) takes a close look at using carbon emissions as a feedstock to more efficiently decarbonize economies around the world. The authors identify an enormous opportunity for algae. C2ES published “Carbon Utilization–A Vital and Effective Pathway for Decarbonization” to
(Biomass Research and Development (BR&D) Board) Created through the Biomass Research and Development Act of 2000, the Biomass Research and Development (BR&D) Board facilitates coordination among federal government agencies that affect the research and development of biofuels, bioproducts, and biopower. Since 2013, the BR&D Board has worked to shape an interagency
(National Algae Association) CLEAN THE GREEN™ is a grass-roots fundraising campaign to help deploy environmentally-sound remediation technologies while minimizing the causes of toxic algae blooms and HABs. Immediate algae bloom & HAB remediation is needed along with long-term maintenance of contaminated waterways to solve algae blooms & HABs and restore water quality.
(Biofuels International) … One of the most critical steps in the bioprocessing of algae to optimise economy and yield is the cell disruption stage. The functionality of algae biochemicals must be maintained while obtaining high disruption yields, hence the need for an efficient, scalable process. High pressure homogenisation (HPH) offers
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington state, Phase Genomics will receive $325,000 as part of the $73 million Department of Energy (DOE) Office Efficiency and Renewable Energy funding. Phase Genomics’ proximity-ligation metagenomic technology will be leveraged to sequence the genomes of new microorganisms to help detect and manage microbial pests in
Consultation – Your View on Promoting EU Algae Production DEADLINE: January 18, 2021
(European Commission) The European Commission has just published an online consultation on its roadmap towards a strong and sustainable EU algae sector. Algae have been part of human lives throughout the world for centuries, if not longer. Some species even have a strong symbolic meaning, evoking wishes of long-lasting relationships