Paper Title: Third-generation biodiesel development in Bangladesh: a review of recent trends, prospects, and economic analysis
Authors: Itquan Hossen, Rupak Saha, M.M.K. Bhuiya, N M Morshedul Hoque
Corresponding Author: Itquan Hossen (itquan2013@gmail.com)/Bangladesh
Abstract
Researchers worldwide are seeking alternative sources of energy that can meet the future energy demand while significantly mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In addition, increasing the global energy demand at a faster rate, dependency on fossil fuels, and the price of fossil fuels are increasing at an alarming rate day by day. Amongst the options, biodiesel as an environmentally sustainable renewable fuel is considered to make a substantial contribution to the future transport energy demands locally and internationally. Among different biodiesel sources, advanced biodiesel feedstock, so-called 3rd generation biodiesel, which is mainly derived from microalgae, can be taken into account as a promising potential feedstock for biodiesel production due to their fast growth rates, high lipid content, high production rate, and ability to capture carbon dioxide. This paper discusses the selection of 3rd generation biodiesel, recent trends in microalgae-based biodiesel production, challenges in large-scale commercialization, and prospects for its development, particularly in the scenario of Bangladesh. The study estimates biodiesel can produce 10,000 liters per acre per year, with great potential for CO2 sequestration and job development. The study also looks at how Bangladesh’s plentiful freshwater and saline water supplies might be used for microalgae farming in desolate areas. Microalgae biodiesel can be generated at 0.50–0.75 USD per liter, according to a cost study; government subsidies and economies of scale will help to further lower this figure. Microalgae biodiesel can help Bangladesh reach energy security, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage sustainable economic development by being included in their renewable energy plan. This paper will provide a clear understanding of the potential usages of microalgae biodiesel as an alternative source to fossil fuel.
Keywords
Microalgae, Biodiesel, Sustainability, Bangladesh
