What type of algae does Aquatic Energy grow, and how does it affect the environment?
Aquatic Energy grows proprietary strains of “green algae” that are native to the southwestern Louisiana. Our algae are eco-friendly for several reasons: First, green algae are good for the environment. They also serve as the largest oxygen producers on the planet and consume large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. When grown, our algae consume 155 metric tons (171 tons) of CO2 per hectare. In production, our algae consume among the highest amounts of CO2, minimizing emissions by about 91%, comparing favorably to other biofuel crops. Even when burned as fuel, algae offer a 50 to 80 percent reduction in particulate emissions, with no loss of power, versus fossil fuels. These reduced emissions are considered carbon neutral because the greenhouse gases algae consume during growth offset them. Environmentally, other biofuels cannot compete. Second, our algal products are respectful to land that is habitable, farmable or that could be used for endangered species habitats.
