Fast, degradable, and climate-neutral – algae as a new bioplastic?
Heterotrophic bacteria such as Cupriavidus necator can already produce PHB bioplastic. These bacteria's energy source is the sugar obtained from crops. Cyanobacteria has a significant advantage in PHB production. To conclude, microalgae can fix sunlight and extract energy from it. As a result, PHB production is CO2-neutral. Indeed, it offers ethical and ecological advantages over using heterotrophic bacteria. PHB production by cyanobacteria is currently still in primary research mode. It could be years before it is ready for industrial utilisation. Last but not least, there is also the question of price. PHB production by heterotrophic bacteria is currently more cost-effective.