Open AccessProgress of Microalgal Biodiesel Research in Pakistan
Author(s) -
Yue Shi
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
hsoa journal of plant science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2639-3743
DOI - 10.24966/pscr-3743/100004
Subject(s) - biodiesel , pongamia , biomass (ecology) , biofuel , fossil fuel , jatropha , energy security , jatropha curcas , diesel fuel , biodiesel production , renewable energy , environmental science , waste management , natural resource economics , business , engineering , microbiology and biotechnology , economics , agronomy , chemistry , biochemistry , biology , catalysis , electrical engineering
Excessive use of fossil fuels has led to severe energy calamity and environmental pollution in the world. The effect can be mitigated by shifting from conventional fuels to biofuel which may become a replacement of fuels such as diesel, gasoline and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Algal biomass is considered as one of the most promising and emerging sources of biodiesel production. Technologies related to biodiesel production using algal biomass have gained initial foothold in Pakistan but have failed miserably in gaining necessary momentum due to lack of government support to technology. The aim of this study is to indicate the progress and future perspectives of biodiesel production in Pakistan through microalgae. The study indicates that a microalgae is one of the best candidates for biodiesel production in addition to other energy crops like Jatropha, Castor and Pongamia Pinnata. There is a need to expeditiously develop biodiesel technology using local resources to lower the burden of imports on country’s economy while also bringing security of energy resources.