Work

Algal systems reimagined: exploring the potential for sustainable solutions to diverse wastewater challenges

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The increasing demand for sustainable wastewater treatment solutions has highlighted the importance of algal technologies in managing domestic, industrial, and aquaculture wastewater. Algae-based treatment systems offer a promising approach due to their ability to efficiently remove nutrients and pollutants while generating valuable biomass. This review explores the significance of algal technologies in wastewater treatment, focusing on the removal rates and benefits of algae in purifying various types of wastewaters, including domestic sewage, industrial wastewater, and aquaculture wastewater. Additionally, it summarizes the application and research progress of algal-bacterial symbiotic systems, algal-bacterial granular sludge systems, and the co-cultivation of various algae species. Recent developments, including the integration of machine learning to optimize treatment processes and innovative bioreactor designs to enhance algal performance, are also discussed. Furthermore, the review addresses pilot-scale applications and sustainability assessments, providing insights into the current challenges and prospects within the algae-based industry, which has recently shown significant promise.

Source: Blue Biotechnology

DOI: 10.1186/s44315-025-00033-x

Authors: Heng Li, Lingfen Kong, Wanyun Ai, Yong Zhang

Institutions: Xiamen Ocean Vocational College, Xiamen University Tan Kah Kee College

Language: English

Topic: Algal biology and biofuel production

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,290