Sustainable Development of Algal Biofuels in the United States

By: Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences and Division on Earth and Life Studies and Board on Energy and Environmental Systems and National Research Council and Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources and Committee on the Sustainable Development of Algal Biofuels

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Synopsis: Biofuels made from algae are gaining attention as a domestic source of renewable fuel. However, with current technologies, scaling up production of algal biofuels to meet even 5 percent of U.S. transportation fuel needs could create unsustainable demands for energy, water, and nutrient resources. Continued research and development could yield innovations to address these challenges, but determining if algal biofuel is a viable fuel alternative will involve comparing the environmental, economic and social impacts of algal biofuel production and use to those associated with petroleum-based fuels and other fuel sources. Sustainable Development of Algal Biofuels was produced at the request of the U.S. Department of Energy.