Life Cycle Analysis for Algae Biofuels - Using Local Situations to Factor in the Cost/Benefit of High-End Products along with Nutrient Remediation and CO2 Sequestration

Algae as a feedstock for commercial biofuels is best suited for sunny and warm areas with abundant fresh, salt, or brackish water. Optimum areas worldwide are in the tropics. Logical areas in North America include the Southeast Gulf coast and perhaps New Mexico. Additional practical areas on smaller scale probably lie in metropolitan locations, especially near international airports. The cost-benefit of these endeavors can be enhanced when factors such as high-end products alongside collaboration with sewage treatment or other waste water remediation, industrial carbon dioxide sequestration, reduced transport distance of fuels, and other aspects of the local economy are taken into consideration. This paper discusses how Oral Roberts University and KBI-Best Energy Solutions propose to work with the Tulsa Airport Authority, the City of Tulsa, and local industries to enhance the practicality of a local algae biofuels venture.