The era of inexpensive fossil fuels is coming to a close, while society is beginning to grapple with the byproducts of their combustion. Identifying alternative and more sustainable energy sources is of the utmost importance. One extremely promising option is biofuel derived from microalgae. Although algal biofuels have the capability to generate a substantial amount of biodiesel, there are a number of limitations that are hindering its commercialization. In this dissertation, I examine two main limitations concerning the economic and environmental sustainability of mass algal cultivation: (1) achieving and maintaining high algal productivity and (2) identifying an inexpensive water and nutrient source. Through the application of some core principles of ecological theory and employing a trait-based approach, I will illustrate how fostering algal diversity within these biofuel systems can lead to high productivity and stability. Knowledge of algal eco-physiological traits is essential for assembling optimal algal communities. Thus, I conducted a large thermal trait survey for 25 different algal species to better understand their biomass and fatty acid production across a range of temperatures. Finally, I will present two experiments I conducted investigating the feasibility of coupling algal cultivation with wastewater remediation generated at breweries. This work has illustrated that wastewater is a highly suitable source of nutrients for algal cultivation and microalgae have high remediation potential as well, ultimately advancing the sustainability of both breweries and mass algal production.
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