Algal cultivation and algal residue conversion to bioenergy and valuable chemicals

Fossil fuels have made great contributions to the progress of human civilization. However, the continued utilization of these nonrenewable resources is facing severe challenges with the rapid development of industry and energy consumption. As an alternative, microalgal biomass constitutes a main focus for the development of renewable energy supplies. Sustainable energy sources will not only help to alleviate the crisis caused by the depletion of fossil fuels but also reduce the carbon dioxide emissions to address climate change, and improve the living environment for human beings, and all life on the planet earth. In addition, harnessing microalgae to treat wastewater, produce high-valuable products from microalgae, and optimize the culture system can lead to effective technology with economic benefits. Therefore, for sustainable renewable energy, environmental protection, and high-value chemical derivatives, the development microalgal biomass offers significant technical and economic potential for the future. This chapter’s objective is to describe the development and cultivation methods for microalgae to achieve the above goals.