Microalgae in Bioremediation: Sequestration of Greenhouse Gases, Clearout of Fugitive Nutrient Minerals, and Subtraction of Toxic Elements from Waters

Microalgae, the microscopic, predominantly unicellular eukaryotes of wide diversity, are the most common inhabitants of Earth's water bodies. They have a very short generation time and multiply exponentially under favorable environmental conditions. Being photosynthetic, they act as massive carbon sinks. They also have the capacity to take up metal ions from the surrounding medium. Different microalgal species are distinct with respect to the biomolecules they accumulate. These biomolecules-pigments, lipids, and proteins-constitute high-value nutrients in human and animal diets. Considering these attributes of microalgae, their potential in bioremediation of toxic metal pollutants and minerals like nitrates and phosphates in water and the greenhouse gases (CO2 and N2O)in the flue gas emissions from fossil fuel consumption in transport vehicles and industries is being extensively explored. The algal biomass thus created during biosequestration of greenhouse gases and nutrient minerals can be a source of nutraceuticals for humans or animals and also probably a biofuel. The literature on this topic is herewith reviewed. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.