Integrated Microalgal Platform for Upcycling Biomass Wastes

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This Discovery Grant Program aims to develop algae-based processes to convert waste biomass and greenhouse gases into oleochemicals that are currently produced from unsustainable feedstocks, such as palm oil. Oleochemicals are products derived from triglycerides, including fatty acids, fatty alcohols, methyl esters, and glycerin, that are commonly used to manufacture food products, soaps, detergents, cosmetics, lubricants, and drilling fluids. Bioresource-based industries play a significant role in the Canadian economy, contributing $136 billion to Canada's GDP in 2017, and employing 2.5 million people. In a low carbon economy, bioresources will play an even greater role. However, to ensure the sustainability of the bioresource-based economy, circular economy principles must be applied to ensure we efficiently convert these bioresources. The disposal of waste biomass that is generated at different stages results in the formation and release of significant amounts of greenhouse gases, with the agri-food sector alone being currently responsible for roughly 10% of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions. Over the last decade, significant progress has been achieved in developing processes to convert biomass waste into biofuels. Although today this is perhaps the most effective use of biomass waste, progress in electrification and a push for decarbonizing the economy means that in the medium to long term there is limited scope for using biomass as a feedstock for fuels. Thus, new technologies are clearly needed to effectively transform biomass waste into non-fuel products. This program will transform biomass residues and greenhouse gas emissions into valuable products. Microalgae are a group of photosynthetic microbes that have attracted significant interest as a source of biofuels and chemicals due to their high areal productivities, which are several times higher than that of plants. Interestingly, several algae species can use organic matter in addition to performing photosynthesis. This dual way of living results in very efficient utilization of carbon and open the opportunity to exploit algae to upcycle biomass waste into valuable chemicals, such as fatty acids and fatty alcohols, which are currently obtained primarily from palm oil cultivated in tropical locations. This research will generate fundamental knowledge about the effects controlling algal growth, and the concentration and type of lipids algae produce. This knowledge will allow using algae as a highly efficient platform for the sustainable production of chemicals, fostering the growth of the circular and bio-based economies, and reducing climate change contributions. Highly qualified personnel will be trained with the skills to develop and support the next generation of bioprocesses and to lead the transition towards a low carbon, more sustainable society.