Dr Friendly: Biodiesel
“save the planet with *algae*”
“Biofuels are all over the news these days as a green, lo-tech way to eliminate greenhouse gases and our dependency on petroleum. But, to grow enough fuel for the U.S. using land crops (soybeans, switchgrass, “waste” cellulose, etc.) would require more than the entire area of the country and cause massive ecological damage. How can we grow all the fuel we need without injuring our precious cropland, topsoil, and water supplies?
Microalgae produce prodigious amounts of biodiesel fuel and can be grown in salt water. This means it can be farmed in oceans, inland salt water lakes or non-productive land area (such as the playa!), reserving our fertile land and fresh water for ecosystems and growing food. Algae are also many times more productive per acre than any other biofuel technology. For example, a one-acre algae pond (208 feet x 208 feet) could supply fuel to 10+ ordinary diesel cars year-round. Algae can simultaneously treat wastewater and produce valuable co-products (fertilizer, nutrients, pigments, etc.). Because of the simplicity of making biodiesel from algae oil, DIY-ers, cooperatives, environmentalists, developing countries, and just about anyone can participate in this economical, eco-friendly approach to fuel-self sufficiency.
We are seeking collaborators and like-minded spirits to build and operate an inspirational educational algal biodiesel production facility for the ’07 Burning Man festival and beyond. We will show 40,000+ burners how to grow and harvest fast-growing, clean-smelling algae and make it into fuel!
We are building a greenhouse sanctuary to house the algae pool and Zen teahouse where we will serve green algae smoothies in the humid, oxygen-rich atmosphere generated by the algae. Evaporated water will be returned to the pond, minimizing water loss. Adjacent will also be the biodiesel oil “washing” system, and an area for educational exhibits. The minimal energy required for the algae growth and processing will be supplied by solar cells and solar heaters.
In the current conception, the algae pond will be approximately 6 inches deep and circle around a central lounge zone. Air-plants and algae-inspired art will also hang in the space, creating a healthful, contemplative atmosphere.
If you are interested and would like to help out, please mail us or come to our upcoming organizational meetings on the development of this playa installation. Enthusiastic algae farmers, educators, engineers, designers and builders are most welcome!”
