Algae Biofuel vs Traditional Fossil Fuels: Which Is Better?
Fossil fuels have been the primary energy source for decades. However, as the world becomes more conscious of the impact of emissions on climate change, alternative fuels are becoming increasingly important. Biofuels, in particular, are gaining more attention as a potential alternative to traditional fossil fuels. One such biofuel that piqued the interest of many is algae biofuel. As we explore more eco-friendly alternatives, let's take a closer look at how algae biofuel compares to traditional fossil fuels.
How It's Made
Traditional fossil fuels like crude oil occur naturally in the earth's crust. Oil producers extract them through drilling, and the oil is then refined into various products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Algae biofuel, on the other hand, comes from algae. Algae are simple aquatic plants that can grow in various environments, such as saltwater, wastewater, and even land. These microorganisms contain lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins that can be processed into biofuels.
Environmental Impact
When it comes to environmental impact, algae biofuel is a clear winner. Algae can grow rapidly in various environments, making it an excellent renewable resource. Its cultivation process also has several benefits. Algae can consume CO2, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, from the atmosphere while simultaneously producing oxygen. Moreover, this process can occur in various ways, including the use of industrial plant emissions or waste streams. By using such emissions, algae biofuel has the potential to capture and reduce large amounts of CO2 emissions.
In contrast, fossil fuels' extraction and production have a significant impact on the environment. They are responsible for 76% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to air pollution, acid rain, and climate change.
Cost
Cost is a significant factor in the energy industry, and the same applies to biofuels. Although the production of algae biofuel is costly, it continues to drop as technology advances. Currently, the production cost ranges from $15-$28 per gallon compared to gasoline's retail price, which is around $2 per gallon. With more research, development, and government subsidies, we can expect the cost of algae biofuel to continue to decrease.
In contrast, the cost of traditional fossil fuels fluctuates based on market conditions, and it is heavily affected by political issues and natural disasters. For example, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, demand for fossil fuels dropped significantly, causing the global prices to plummet.
Practicality
In terms of practicality, fossil fuels still reign as the most practical energy source for transportation. For example, gasoline has a high energy density, which means it can store a lot of energy in a small volume. This makes it an ideal fuel for transportation, allowing for longer trips with fewer refuellings. Moreover, gasoline is compatible with existing infrastructure and vehicles, making it an easy and straightforward option.
While algae biofuel has the potential to be used for transportation, more research and development are necessary to increase its energy density and make it more affordable. Additionally, its use requires modifications to the existing infrastructure, which could pose significant challenges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, algae biofuel is a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Its cultivation process has several environmental benefits, and as technology advances, the cost of production is expected to decrease. However, it still has some practical obstacles to overcome before it can replace fossil fuels entirely. With a combined effort from the government, private sector, and researchers, we can expect significant advances in the use of algae biofuel and other biofuels in the near future.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Biofuels. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/biofuels/about/pac-20384669
- United States Department of Energy. (2020). Algae biofuels. https://www.energy.gov/eere/bioenergy/algae-biofuels