Microalgae-based carbon capture and bio jet fuel production: a sustainable pathway for future aviation

In order to fulfil global net-zero emission targets, the aviation industry is facing increasing pressure to lower its carbon footprint and switch to sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). The potential of microalgae as a dual-purpose platform for carbon capture and biojet fuel production is examined in this review, providing a viable means of decarbonizing aircraft. Through photosynthesis, microalgae naturally absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere and transform it into lipids that are high in energy and act as building blocks for renewable jet fuels. The study looks at new developments in CO₂ utilisation efficiency, photobioreactor technology, and cultivation techniques that increase adsorption capacity. Additionally, a comparative life-cycle evaluation shows that using SAFs made from microalgae instead of fossil-based jet fuels can result in considerable savings in greenhouse gas emissions, with potential reductions of 60-70% in net CO₂ emissions. Integration strategies, which use industrial CO₂ streams to increase scalability and sustainability, are also included in the review. Microalgae-based SAFs offer a feasible solution to meet net-zero aviation targets and aid in upcoming energy transitions by combining carbon reduction with the production of renewable fuel.