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Phycoremediation: A Sustainable Biorefinery Approach

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Microbial Rejuvenation of Polluted Environment

Abstract

This chapter addresses the phycoremediation as an alternative treatment process for the removal of pollutants from water and wastewaters. Simultaneously, the phycoremediation produces microalgae biomass that is a valuable source of feedstock. Microalgae are one of the most substantial examples of the biorefinery concept, since microalgae biosynthesis of high-added-value compounds such as long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, phenolic compounds, sterols, proteins, amino acids, peptides, vitamins, among others. In addition, microalgae can degrade/absorb pollutants such as heavy metals, drug residues (antibiotics and hormones), nitrogen, and phosphorus. Moreover, microalgae increase the degradation capacity of the local microbiota as bacteria, yeasts, and fungi by supplying them with oxygen and nutrients. Regarding the crucial current environmental problem (worldwide), it is essential to develop low-cost technologies that aim to significantly reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing, in particular, technologies that are related to integrated processes such as phycoremediation and production of high-added-value molecules.

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Michelon, W., Viancelli, A., Fongaro, G., de Andrade, L.M., Treichel, H., de Andrade, C.J. (2021). Phycoremediation: A Sustainable Biorefinery Approach. In: Panpatte, D.G., Jhala, Y.K. (eds) Microbial Rejuvenation of Polluted Environment. Microorganisms for Sustainability, vol 25. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-7447-4_4

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