Microalgae for integrated food and fuel production

Microalgae have a great potential for the sustainable production of food and fuel for a growing world population with increasing demands and changing habits. Since they are cultivated in technical systems, they do not contribute to land use competition, loss of biodiversity, and environmental pollution like other food and energy crops. Despite these advantages, the commercialization of algae technology is still in an infant stage. Algae fuel production has so far failed due to low oil prices and lack of economic viability. However, integrated food and fuel production is considered promising because the food market is more diversified and open to new and innovative products than the energy market. Integrated food and fuel production from microalgae can not only achieve higher returns on investment but also greater acceptance than fuel production alone. From the sociotechnical point of view, it is however crucial that the integrated algae production system will fulfill the promises of health and sustainability. To achieve this, a codesign approach is used, considering public perception and the views, knowledge and values of citizens and stakeholders already at an early stage in the research and innovation process.