CO2-Consuming Algae: Ally for Emitters in New Era of Regulation

MINNEAPOLIS, MN--(Marketwired - Jun 25, 2013) - Today's announcement by the Obama Administration on regulations to reduce the United States' greenhouse gas emissions presents significant partnership opportunities for the U.S. algae industry with utilities and other regulated entities, according to Mary Rosenthal, executive director of the Algae Biomass Organization, the trade association for the algae industry.

"While many people think of CO₂ emissions as a problem, algae technology companies see them as valuable inputs for the production of algae-based food, fuel and animal feed. Algae consume CO₂ as they grow, and for high productivity, algae require more CO₂ which can be supplied by emission sources such as power plants. By reusing CO₂, algae-based technologies provide carbon-intensive industries with an emissions reduction approach that is a revenue-generating opportunity, rather than a costly expense. 

"While reducing overall emissions, these technologies also reduce our reliance on imported oil and create new sources of food and feed on lands unsuitable for agriculture and using waters unsuitable for human consumption.

"Members of the Algae Biomass Organization look forward to working with utilities and other affected entities to showcase algae-based solutions that can help them meet their obligations while creating jobs, reducing costs and creating new growth opportunities."

About the Algae Biomass Organization
The Algae Biomass Organization (ABO) is a 501(c)(6) non-profit whose mission is to promote the development of viable commercial markets for renewable and sustainable commodities derived from algae. Its membership is comprised of people, companies and organizations across the value chain. More information about ABO, including its leadership, membership, costs, benefits and members and their affiliations, is available at the website: www.algaebiomass.org.