Fueling the Future: Extraction and Production Technological Development of Marine Macroalgae-Seaweed Biodiesel

In the contemporary era, the quest for sustainable, eco-friendly energy alternatives has become paramount against the backdrop of escalating environmental concerns and depleting fossil fuel reserves. Biodiesel emerges as a pivotal contender in this context, offering a renewable and cleaner energy alternative. This chapter delves into a potential solution by investigating the viability of third-generation seaweed biomass as a reliable and cost-effective feedstock for biodiesel production, amidst the prevalent challenges posed by first- and second-generation feedstocks, such as the food versus fuel debate and land-use dilemmas. A meticulous review of both conventional and advanced techniques for extracting lipids from seaweed and converting them into biodiesel is provided, offering a panoramic view of the current technological landscape in seaweed biodiesel production. While seaweed-derived biodiesel proffers economic benefits and favorable characteristics, it is not without its challenges, notably its lower lipid content compared to first- and second-generation feedstock sources, which may impose constraints on the biodiesel industry. To navigate this limitation, this chapter underscores the importance of expanded research to develop innovative methods that can enhance lipid extraction and biodiesel conversion efficiencies. Harnessing seaweed as a feedstock for biodiesel production unfurls a promising avenue toward sustainable energy resources, harboring the potential to make a significant positive impact on economic and social sustainability.