Notes from the Iberian Algae Belt

Abstract

In this paper, we explore regional innovation in the use of varieties of algae as inputs to industrial processes. It is important to understand that algae are one of nature's most bountiful products, with an almost infinite variety of applications. Algae have received prominence in the research literature because of the strong evidence that they can make a major contribution to the production and—importantly—storage of renewable energy. Following the introduction to this paper, Section 2 reviews the nature and application of algae in two main aspects of clean energy production: first as biogasolene or biodiesel; second as large-scale storage batteries for electricity. The latter is particularly important as one classic deficiency of electricity is the difficulty in storing it for lengthy periods other than in short-life batteries. However (Section 3), there are other uses for algae, ranging from aquaculture to medicine and the production of cosmetics. In the southwest corner of the Iberian Peninsula, between Faro in Portugal through Huelva to Cadiz in Spain, is a significant research and commercial algae production zone. The paper describes the key system elements in play in this trans-border innovation network and considers prospects for new path creation towards biofuels, the main research and application centres for which are in the San Francisco Bay Area in California. Conclusions and recommendations for policy action are then drawn.

Acknowledgements

This brief article was stimulated by joint research funded under the project KIMERAA co-financed by the European Cooperation Programme 2007–2013 Atlantic Area. The sponsors are thanked for their support and responsibility for this article lies entirely with its authors. We also benefited from the comments of two referees.

Notes

KIMERAA—Knowledge transfer to Improve Marine Economy in Regions from the Atlantic Area is a project that intends to stimulate the creation of niches of excellence in the Sea Cluster benefiting from the utilization of research results. The project is led by the UAlg and involves the Centre for Advanced Studies of the University of Cardiff (Wales), the Universities of Porto and Huelva, MIK (a research unit of the Bask Country) and WestBic (a Business Innovation Centre in Ireland).