As we know, the earth is under increasing pressure to perform, with climate change and the demands of an ever-growing population putting a stranglehold on natural resources. And it’s nature itself that might hold some solutions to these issues, if we know where to look.
The latest experiment at Symbiosis Center Denmark is all about exploring the industrial potential of green algae, specifically, its ability to feed on CO2 and then convert it into protein.
The algae plant experiments are also about purifying waste water from the nearby Novozymes biotech industry, which produces enzymes that, for instance, are used in the textile or food industries. The algae use up CO2 in combination with the light and produce valuable biomass in the process, which can be used in the manufacture of high-value products. For instance, some algae have a high content of Omega 3 fatty acids, similar to the food that fish eat in the wild. It follows, therefore, that feeding fish with these algae give the fish a better taste when cooked.
Just as importantly is the business feasibility of this science. Calculations show that a production price of 400 Danish kroner per kilo (about $26.07 per pound) can make it a profitable business.
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