Biofuel: A New Use For Kelp

Arguably the most important topic for environmentalists in the sustainable movement, fuel is one of the most difficult challenges we face in searching for a greener future. The most popular and widely used fuel source has of course been fossil fuels, which has wreaked havoc on the environment and climate for decades. In terms of alternative sources of energy, we have primarily seen wind, solar, and hydro power take center stage.  

But there is a growing interest in sustainable fuels in particular, which has given rise to novel biofuels. These fuels are often derived from biomass in a sustainable fashion, usually through crops like corn or soy. However, as is commonly known among environmental activists, growing these crops is not always an environmentally sustainable process. These crops take up land space, water, and other resources to grow.  

This is where kelp comes in. This new source of biofuel is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason.  

A Wonder Crop

One of the first things to note about the special position of kelp among crops is its environmental impact, or for that matter the lack thereof. Most crops take a toll on the environment in some way. This often takes the form of excessive land usage that pushes wildlife to increasingly smaller areas, destroying their habitats, or using excessive resources. For example, although products made from a particular crop may be organic or sustainable, it may also take excessive water, herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers to grow in viable quantities. This is why crops are not always the most sustainable options.

However, this is where kelp differs. Typical kelp aquacultures do not need any of the previously mentioned resources. The nature of kelp means that it is extremely hardy. It is a durable plant that needs remarkably limited care. Much like another wonder plant, bamboo, kelp also grows at extremely fast rates. In ideal conditions, a kelp plant can grow a foot a day, making it a great option as an in-demand fuel source as it could be replaced rapidly to fulfill constant demands. Even more importantly, kelp does not stress its local environment, and in fact contributes to ocean rejuvenation.  

How Kelp Factors into Biofuel

Although kelp has recently been looked into for its high nutrient qualities, it is also a notable source of biofuel for its chemical composition and potential. Kelp can sustainably be converted into a source of biofuel through thermochemical liquefaction. This fancy term simply means that the kelp is treated to recover its valuable chemical properties that make it an exceptional biofuel. This process is completely sustainable as well, consuming little resources and requiring minimum labor, so the entire process fits well within the desires of sustainable activists.

What is Holding Kelp Back?

So, kelp can be sustainably grown through aquacultures, is beneficial to the environment, and can be sustainably converted into a viable biofuel. It is also durable and hardy enough to be grown consistently, year round, to fulfill biofuel demands. This begs the question, what’s the hold-up? Why isn’t kelp being utilized at this very moment, instead of the somewhat less sustainable corn alternative? The answer is as frustrating as can be expected, there simply isn’t the investment and resources needed to grow and utilize kelp on a large scale.  

Although the costs of operation are minimal, the initial investment cost is still notable. Aquaculture farms need to be run by trained professionals, they fit within particular regulations, and they need specific knowledge and equipment to be run properly. To meet the demand needed to take full advantage of the potential of kelp, there will need to be a greater infrastructure investment. Potential can only be truly activated when it is met by entrepreneurs and professionals ready to take on the challenge.  

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Kelp In the Future

Despite the lack of resources currently available, it is clear the future of kelp is bright. This amazing crop has been getting more and more attention recently, particularly for its use as a superfood and biofuel. Within the next decade, it is likely we will be seeing more kelp on the market, both as a product and in-demand resource, and those ready to take the plunge now will likely be at the frontier.

Actionable Takeaways

• Kelp meets all the main criteria of a sustainable biofuel and exceeds it by helping the environment during its production.  
• There is a growing market for kelp, which is projected to continue growing well into the future.  
• As a growing sector, the kelp market is prime for entrepreneurs ready to take on the challenge.  

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