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Microalgal Bioeconomy: A Green Economy Approach Towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Author

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  • Nilay Kumar Sarker

    (School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia)

  • Prasad Kaparaju

    (School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia)

Abstract

This article delves into the role of microalgae in advancing a green economy, thereby contributing to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Microalgae, as sustainable resources, offer multifaceted benefits across various sectors, including aquaculture, agriculture, food and feed, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, wastewater treatment, and carbon sequestration. This review highlights the versatility of microalgae in producing biofuels, high-value bioactive compounds, and bioremediation processes. It examines the technical viability and environmental sustainability of microalgae cultivation, emphasizing its low carbon footprint and resource efficiency. This article also explores the integration of microalgae into existing industrial processes, illustrating their potential to mitigate climate change, promote biodiversity, and enhance resource circularity. Challenges such as scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory frameworks are discussed alongside the prospects for technological innovations and policy support to bolster the microalgae industry. By harnessing the potential of microalgae, this article underscores a pathway towards a more sustainable and greener future, aligning with the global agenda for sustainable development.

Suggested Citation

  • Nilay Kumar Sarker & Prasad Kaparaju, 2024. "Microalgal Bioeconomy: A Green Economy Approach Towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-45, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:24:p:11218-:d:1549047
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Senem Onen Cinar & Zhi Kai Chong & Mehmet Ali Kucuker & Nils Wieczorek & Ugur Cengiz & Kerstin Kuchta, 2020. "Bioplastic Production from Microalgae: A Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-21, May.
    2. Ehimen, E.A. & Sun, Z.F. & Carrington, C.G. & Birch, E.J. & Eaton-Rye, J.J., 2011. "Anaerobic digestion of microalgae residues resulting from the biodiesel production process," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 88(10), pages 3454-3463.
    3. Genovaitė Liobikienė & Astrida Miceikienė, 2023. "Contribution of the European Bioeconomy Strategy to the Green Deal Policy: Challenges and Opportunities in Implementing These Policies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(9), pages 1-14, April.
    4. H. Chanakya & Durga Mahapatra & R. Sarada & R. Abitha, 2013. "Algal biofuel production and mitigation potential in India," Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change, Springer, vol. 18(1), pages 113-136, January.
    5. João Gonçalves & Jorge Freitas & Igor Fernandes & Pedro Silva, 2023. "Microalgae as Biofertilizers: A Sustainable Way to Improve Soil Fertility and Plant Growth," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(16), pages 1-19, August.
    6. Heimann, Tobias, 2019. "Bioeconomy and SDGs: Does the Bioeconomy Support the Achievement of the SDGs?," Open Access Publications from Kiel Institute for the World Economy 225998, Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW Kiel).
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    Cited by:

    1. Sofia Vaz & Rui Martins & Helena M. Pinheiro & Laura Monteiro, 2025. "Effect of Hydraulic Retention Time on Nutrient Removal in a Microalgae-Based Tertiary Treatment: A Pilot-Scale Study in Winter Conditions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(16), pages 1-20, August.
    2. Juan Pablo Pereira Lima & André Aguiar, 2025. "Evaluating the Performance of a Wastewater Treatment Plant of a Dairy Facility in Southern Minas Gerais, Brazil," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(17), pages 1-15, August.
    3. Yinghui Ji & Hui Zhang & Pin Wang & Guohui Lin & Haining Yang & Hai-Xiang Cheng, 2025. "Promotion of Microalgal Growth, CO 2 Fixation, and Pollutant Removal in Piggery Effluent by a Column Photobioreactor with Funnel-Shaped Spoilers," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-17, May.
    4. Marcin Zieliński & Marta Kisielewska & Annamaria Talpalaru & Paulina Rusanowska & Joanna Kazimierowicz & Marcin Dębowski, 2025. "Integration of Aquaculture Wastewater Treatment and Chlorella vulgaris Cultivation as a Sustainable Method for Biofuel Production," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(16), pages 1-23, August.

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