The future is green, says Centre for Process Innovation

Jul 1 2009 by Kelley Price, Evening Gazette

SCIENTISTS on Teesside are planning to use some of the tiniest organisms on the planet to capture carbon emissions from entire cities.

The project - the first to apply process technology to the idea of using algae to absorb greenhouse gases - will be unveiled at a national showcase for the next big eco-breakthroughs today, attended by the Prince of Wales.

Developed by Wilton-based Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) and global consultancy Arup, the project could eventually be scaled up to capture carbon emitted by entire cities and overtake more primitive but expensive carbon capture technology being introduced to all new coal-fired power stations by 2015.

Although it’s early days, experts say the process engineering and reactor facilities needed could be rolled out in the Tees Valley. However more public and private sector investment is required.

The technology will be showcased at the Sustainable Development Commission’s “Breakthroughs for the 21st Century” event today, held at the Royal Horticultural Halls.

The ultra-green process uses the harmful emitted by power stations to grow algae. The plant can be used to make green energy, transport fuel, oil and pharmaceuticals - unlocking huge commercial possibilities.

Large amounts of algae are needed, though, and the next stage for scientists is to work out how to engineer as little of the plant as possible to produce maximum results.

“Algae is the fastest growing plant. It can double in a day,” said Dr Graham Hillier, director of low-carbon energy at CPI.

“The big challenge is how do we take the concept forward from small-scale test stage. We’re looking at various ways of growing algae more effectively. It’s economically attractive, because of its other uses, and it’s a resource efficient, natural process.

“There is a lot of interest in this around the world. The science is there, now the UK needs to invest its money in developing the technologies and infrastructure.

“We are planning a rapid research and development programme for larger scale demonstration. We are also looking at ways of integrating the processes into existing power supply and waste management systems.”

The idea originated during Arup’s work on carbon capture and research into food technologies for the Dongtan eco-city project, China’s first fully sustainable city. CPI’s process and systems engineers have developed the idea further.

Peter Head, director and global head of planning at Arup, said: “The use of algae in this way could have a vast impact on the environment.

“It not only has the potential to reduce the carbon dioxide that power plants emit by 70 to 80% - improving their carbon footprint - but the algae itself could potentially provide an alternative source of fuel. Through its by-products, a new revenue stream to support investment in carbon capture technologies could be created.”

Today’s event will showcase the most dynamic and innovative sustainable ideas. Top guest speakers include Jonathan Dimbleby, Rosie Boycott and Jonathan Porritt.