Held under the BioE3 policy of the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, the workshop focused on Microalgae-Based Carbon Capture and Biofuel Production. It served as a dynamic platform to explore the emerging potential of micro-algal biotechnology in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable energy solutions. The workshop brought together participants from ten countries.
As the world faces mounting challenges from greenhouse gas emissions, microalgae have garnered significant attention for their efficiency in carbon dioxide capture and bioenergy generation. This workshop brought together experts from academia, industry, and policy to share insights, discuss innovations, and foster collaborations in this rapidly evolving field.
The scientific sessions highlighted recent advancements in developing synthetic microalgae capable of thriving under elevated CO₂ concentrations of up to 18%, far exceeding the tolerance of most native strains, which typically do not perform well beyond 5% CO₂. These engineered microalgae exhibit significantly enhanced biomass productivity, achieving 4–6 times higher yields than wild-type counterparts. Importantly, the synthetic strains have been designed with environmental safeguards, limiting their survival under ambient air conditions and ensuring safe large-scale application.
Participants engaged with a wide range of topics spanning strain selection, genetic engineering, cultivation strategies, harvesting technologies, and downstream processing for the production of biodiesel, bioethanol, biogas, and sustainable aviation fuel. The workshop also addressed critical aspects such as life-cycle assessment, techno-economic analysis, and evolving policy frameworks to support the commercialization of microalgae-based carbon capture and biofuel technologies.
A diverse group of researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers contributed valuable insights throughout the sessions, encouraging active dialogue and collaboration across disciplines. The discussions underscored the importance of interdisciplinary efforts in translating laboratory innovations into practical, scalable, and economically viable solutions for global carbon management.
Beyond scientific learning, the workshop served as a catalyst for future innovation, fostering partnerships and inspiring participants to contribute toward the advancement of microalgae-based technologies as part of a broader global strategy for sustainable development and climate mitigation.
