Life
A strain of green algae has been artificially evolved to turn carbon dioxide into sustainable fuel and plastic
By James Woodford
Facebook / Meta
Twitter / X icon
Chlamydomonas pacifica algae growing in an outdoor pond
João Vitor Dutra Molino
A newly discovered species of algae has been transformed through selective breeding and genetic engineering to survive and produce fuel in environments that would kill most organisms. The research is a step towards using algae-based “biofactories” to make sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
The new species, Chlamydomonas pacifica, was found in 2020 in a pond at the University of California in San Diego. The engineered strain can produce oil even when grown in wastewater at temperatures above 40°C (104°F), at a pH higher than 11, in…
View introductory offers
No commitment, cancel anytime*
Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.
*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on
unserved issues.
Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)
or
Existing subscribers
Sign in to your account
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features