Cyanobacterial Biomass as a Feedstock for Biochemicals

The ongoing rise in the global human population and the depletion of natural energy resources present substantial environmental threats. Effective addressing of these challenges necessitates the sustainable provision of food and energy devoid of any adverse environmental impact to meet the sustainable development goals outlined by the United Nations. Cyanobacteria have recently emerged as promising candidates capable of meeting the requirements mentioned above. Their proficiency in efficiently harnessing solar energy and converting it into high-value biomass, utilizing CO2, water, and nutrients, positions them as noteworthy contributors to the circular bioeconomy framework. During this conversion of radiant energy into chemical energy, these biological systems concurrently generate oxygen as a byproduct. The cyanobacterial biomass includes a diverse array of biochemical compounds, including polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and elements, constituting a valuable feedstock for the production of biochemicals with applications ranging from food and energy to biofertilizers, secondary metabolites, cosmetics, and medicinal products. While cyanobacteria represent a feasible source of biochemical feedstock, their industrial applications are impeded by energy and cost challenges. Researchers have therefore expressed interest in addressing these challenges by applying the biorefinery approach. This chapter provides an in-depth exploration of cyanobacterial biomass as a biochemical feedstock for multiproduct biorefinery, elucidating its potential applications and contributing to the advancement of sustainable industrial practices.