Product walkthrough, trial, POCs, enterprise offering, support and more. Speak with one of our specialists.
Climate changes
Microalgae might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about climate change solutions. They are microscopic, live quietly in water, and often go unnoticed. Yet, behind their tiny form lies a powerful force the world is beginning to recognize as a promising tool to absorb carbon from the atmosphere. In the global effort to cut carbon emissions and slow down global warming, microalgae offer a natural, efficient, and scalable approach.
Microalgae are single-celled organisms capable of photosynthesis, much like plants. They belong to the phytoplankton group and can be found in a wide range of aquatic environments, from oceans to freshwater lakes. Their shapes and sizes vary, typically ranging from a few to several hundred micrometers. Unlike seaweed, which is visible to the naked eye, microalgae are microscopic and do not form complex multicellular structures. They also lack roots, stems, or leaves like land plants. Despite their simplicity, microalgae play a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth. They form the base of aquatic food chains and contribute significantly to global oxygen production—surpassing even tropical rainforests.
Like terrestrial plants, microalgae perform photosynthesis by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and using sunlight to produce energy and oxygen. However, their efficiency sets them apart. Microalgae grow and multiply much faster because they don't expend energy building complex structures like leaves or roots. Under optimal conditions, microalgae can double their biomass within hours, making them one of the fastest-growing organisms on Earth[Ref].
Imagine a small pond filled with microalgae—it can become a "carbon field" in just a week, actively absorbing emissions. Certain types of microalgae can capture CO₂ up to 10–50 times more efficiently than land plants. Due to this ability, researchers are developing photobioreactor systems and open ponds to cultivate microalgae on a large scale for climate mitigation purposes.
Microalgae are found in nearly all aquatic ecosystems: oceans, lakes, rivers, swamps, and even man-made ponds. They can thrive in extreme conditions, including highly saline water, extreme temperatures, and even wastewater. Nutrient-rich environments with sufficient light are ideal for their growth. In the oceans, they act as phytoplankton supplying oxygen and food for zooplankton and various fish species. In freshwater systems, microalgae help maintain water quality by absorbing organic matter and heavy metals.
This habitat versatility is another reason why microalgae are seen as flexible carbon absorbers. They don’t require fertile land, don’t compete with food crops, and can be cultivated in previously unproductive areas.
Ecologically, microalgae are primary producers supporting the entire aquatic food web. Without them, marine ecosystems would collapse due to the lack of food sources for other organisms. Additionally, microalgae regulate carbon and nitrogen cycles and help maintain water pH balance.
In the context of climate change, microalgae play a significant role in capturing atmospheric carbon emissions. About 50% of the oxygen we breathe today comes from the photosynthesis activity of microalgae in the oceans[Ref]. They also absorb excess nitrogen and phosphate, preventing eutrophication or harmful algal blooms that can damage aquatic ecosystems.
Microalgae's potential extends far beyond carbon absorption. These microorganisms are being used across sectors ranging from energy to health. One notable application is biofuel production, especially biodiesel, derived from the high lipid content in microalgae[Ref]. This process generates renewable energy with significantly lower carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels.
In food, microalgae like spirulina and chlorella are nutrient-rich sources of protein, vitamins, and antioxidants. They are used in supplements, functional foods, and even animal feed. In the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, microalgae are valued for their bioactive compounds used in skincare, anti-inflammatory treatments, and natural antioxidants.
Beyond their ecological role, microalgae are also being explored for their practical applications in climate and environmental solutions. Microalgae are used in treating industrial and domestic wastewater, as they can absorb heavy metals, nitrogen, and phosphorus—making them effective agents for bioremediation. Building on this potential, carbon offset projects based on microalgae cultivation are being developed, allowing companies to earn carbon credits from the emissions captured by these organisms.
Several species of microalgae are widely studied for their high potential:
Conclusion
Amid global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve environmental conditions, microalgae have emerged as a promising natural solution. With their ability to absorb carbon efficiently, grow rapidly, and offer additional benefits across sectors such as energy, food, and wastewater treatment, microalgae demonstrate great potential for broader development.
Of course, challenges remain—from production costs to the need for technological support and policy frameworks. However, with ongoing research and innovation, microalgae can become a key part of sustainable solutions to help maintain climate stability and quality of life in the future. They may be microscopic, but their contribution to our environmental strategies is anything but small.
Jejakin’s green programs combine high-tech monitoring, biodiversity restoration, and community-led initiatives to deliver powerful, sustainable change across ecosystems.
