Jets running on algae fuel?

This past week, I attended the Algal Biomass Summit in Seattle, WA. Over 600 scientists and entrepreneurs gathered together to discuss the emerging industry of algal-based fuels. The concept is to convert CO2 from the stacks of power plants into algal biomass which can then be converted into biodiesel and ethanol among other valuable by-products. There are several advantages for algal fuels compared to current corn-based ethanol: 1) algal biofuels don't compete with food production since algae don't require valuable crop land and require very little water; 2) algae can be grown on nutrients from wastewater treatment plants; and 3) algae have much higher growth rates than terrestrial crops and can be harvested throughout the year.

Investments are also flooding into this nacent industry. Some estimate that nearly 200 companies have sprouted up in the last 5 years and that nearly $1 billion has already been invested by venture capitalists and major backers. Industry partners ranging from traditional energy companies to airlines are also getting in at the early stages as well. Government support may be coming soon as Representative Jay Inslee (D-WA) encouraged attendees to contact their elected officials to encourage more support clean biofuel technolgy.

For more information about the Algal Biomass Summit visit the Algal Biomass Organization at http://algalbiomass.org/