Microalgae-Based Biorefineries Integrating Phytoremediation and Wastewater Treatment

Resumen

Biorefineries are currently recognized as a sound and environmentally friendly strategy to mitigate the global climate threat. Furthermore, they are now widening their capacity and high added value products are also produced from various types of biomasses. Microalgae-based biorefineries are now recognized as the most promising alternative compared to first and second generation biorefineries. Furthermore, there is a current trend for including the treatment of wastewater as a means of increasing their economic feasibility. On the other hand, the use of aquatic plants for phytoremediation and production of biofuels is also an active research field. However, there is scanty information about the integration of the biomass of microalgae, aquatic plants, and the use of wastewater within a biorefinery. In this short article, a review of the design and implementation of a biorefinery integrating microalgae, aquatic plants, and wastewater to produce biofuels and high- added value products is presented.