Microalgae are a promising-some people say the only-way out of this limi- tation. Even residual biomass-the so called biomass of the second generation-is available only in limited amounts compared to the huge needs in energy supply. So microalgae have been classified as the biomass of the third generation. The potential for a novel type of biomass production for bioeconomy is enormous. The two major advantages on this strategical level can be identified:
* Per unit area, microalgae can form up to five times more biomass than classical energy plants. Values of 100 t biomass per hectare and year are considered to be realistic.
* No valuable agricultural area is required. It is possible to use practically any areas not claimed for other purposes. This includes dry areas, industrial wasteland, brackish water zones or open seas
But where are the large-scale production facilities for economically efficient supply of basic foodstuffs, bulk chemicals or chemical energy carriers? Even if the potential of microalgae for biomass supply is quite obvious, there is still a great need for research to develop relevant applications and to find out, how microalgal biomass can be produced in reliable and profitable manner in large scale. This editorial will give a look over current trends, identify existing obstacles, and specify biological and technical research needs necessary for an economically efficient microalgae-based bioeconomy.
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