Microalgae-based biotechnological sequestration of carbon dioxide for net zero emissions

Abstract

Excessive carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions into the atmosphere have become a dire threat to the human race and environmental sustainability. The ultimate goal of net zero emissions requires combined efforts on CO₂ sequestration (natural sinks, biomass fixation, engineered approaches) and reduction in CO₂ emissions while delivering economic growth (CO₂ valorization for a circular carbon bioeconomy, CCE). We discuss microalgae-based CO₂ biosequestration, including flue gas cultivation, biotechnological approaches for enhanced CO₂ biosequestration, technological innovations for microalgal cultivation, and CO₂ valorization/biofuel productions. We highlight challenges to current practices and future perspectives with the goal of contributing to environmental sustainability, net zero emissions, and the CCE.

Keywords: carbon dioxide; genetic engineering; microalgae; net zero emissions; sequestration; valorization.