Production and growth of microalgae in urine and wastewater: A review

• Main Authors: Siddiqui, Shahida Anusha, Wu, Yuan Seng *, Saikia, Trideep, Ucak, Ilknur, Afreen, Maliha, Shah, Mohd Asif, Ayivi, Raphael D.
• Format: Article
• Published: Springer 2023
• Subjects: QK Botany; QP Physiology; TD Environmental technology. Sanitary engineering; TP Chemical technology
• Online Access: http://eprints.sunway.edu.my/2699/; https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10311-023-01622-1

Issues of climate change, energy demand, and natural resources depletion are calling for circular methods to produce value-added products such as biomass, biofuel, biofertilizers, and nutraceuticals from waste. For instance, culturing photoautotrophic microalgae in wastewater and urine appears promising to recycle nutrients from waste. Here we review microalgal production with focus on wastewater treatment and urine utilization. We present photobioreactors, parameters influencing algal growth, economical aspects, and limitations from consumer acceptance.