Negev Algae For Bio-Fuel

September 5, 2006

Algatech, a production facility based in the Negev, will soon begin collaborating with Israeli-U.S. start-up GreenFuel Technologies Corporation to work towards a common goal: developing cost effective, energy efficient fuel made from micro-algae feeding off of carbon dioxide emissions. Both recognize that a partnership in which one side provides the algae while the other provides technology for turning it into fuel is a complimentary fit.

The product is a micro or single cell alga, cultivated by Algatech, using an optimization and screening process. Algae, made up of lipids, starches and carbs––nature’s basic building blocks or the stuff we eat––ferment from starch or sugar to alcohol and protein, where it can be eaten or burned.

The major tasks facing Algatech and GreenFuel are culturing the algae, optimizing the process and keeping costs low. Scientists on both fronts are eager to begin active collaboration expected to extend two to three years and estimate they’ll have product to market within the coming decade.

Israel has been at the forefront of algae research for years, cultivating, developing and studying different strains of microalgae under ideal climate conditions. Algae can be grown in a wide range of regions, including temperate zones such as Europe, but the Negev desert setting is ideal. For more information: 972-8-635-6425 or www.algatech.com

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