If the pros for using algae for alternative energy are so great, then why are algae not fueling my car already? Why are we still dependent on fossil fuels to power our lives? Many have pondered these questions and have discovered the complexities that really lie beneath such a simple sounding solution.
The debate over algal biofuels and most every source of energy goes beyond political party lines. It doesn’t matter if you’re a democrat or republican; an environmentalist or an economist; or a liberal or a conservative; chances are that you have a rather strong opinion on what we should do regarding energy sources.
Although somewhat biased, Helium.com’s blog entitled “Fossil Fuels and the Environment” presents some of the scientifically proven ill effects of using fossil fuels. The author of the blog writes that the burning of fossil fuels releases “greenhouse gases.” The gases alter the composition of our atmosphere and contribute to the cause of global warming. Furthermore, fossil fuels are a nonrenewable resource. That is, we will eventually run out of them. The question is when. Also, we must consider other environmental effects of fossil fuels, like the Gulf Oil Spill. But, fossil fuels also have their benefits. The technology for processing oil is already developed for the most part, so this helps keep prices down. Fossil fuels are also extremely efficient sources of power compared to alternatives. This allows our world to keep up with the demands we have set forth.
So what about algae? Algae are organic organisms that require photosynthesis to grow. This means that they consume carbon dioxide (a harmful greenhouse gas) and release oxygen. But, when they are burned they release carbon back into the atmosphere, as they are organic. This net release, however, is less the release of carbon while burning fossil fuels. Algae are also renewable. If we grow and harvest them properly, we will not run out. This is a major factor when comparing fossil fuels to algal biofuel.
The debate between money and environment, and belief and disbelief is huge right now. It seems that because most people have such strong opinions, we are slow to come up with a real plan for future energy production. How will we cope with the changing desires and demands of the world in regards to fuel?
