Developing Microalgal Biotechnologies for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Microalgal biotechnology represents a dynamic field at the confluence of sustainability science and innovation. Microalgae, as versatile and highly productive photosynthetic organisms, play a pivotal role in global carbon cycling and primary production but have yet to be fully leveraged as biotechnological resources. Amid escalating environmental challenges—ranging from resource exhaustion to climate change—there is growing recognition of microalgae’s value for enabling sustainable solutions. Recent studies have showcased their applications in producing high-value food, therapeutic agents, wastewater bioremediation, and renewable energy. However, while foundational advances have clarified many biological capabilities, a major challenge remains in scaling these innovations for real-world impact, especially in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Critical knowledge gaps persist regarding commercially viable cultivation, product development, and integration within global sustainability strategies, warranting comprehensive and interdisciplinary investigation.

This Research Topic aims to unlock and define the mechanisms by which microalgae technologies can directly support the SDGs, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). The objective is to highlight research that elucidates microalgal contributions to sustainable food and feed supply, human health enhancements, innovative water treatment, and clean energy production. By fostering exchange across disciplines, this Research Topic seeks to address critical questions surrounding scalability, technical and economic feasibility, life-cycle impacts, and the pathways required to implement microalgae-based solutions at wider scales.

This Research Topic will focus on the intersection of microalgal biotechnology and sustainable development, with particular emphasis on applications that advance the aforementioned SDGs while acknowledging current limitations in scaling and integration. To gather further insights, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
o Food and feed applications of microalgae
o Production of pharmaceutical and therapeutic compounds from microalgae
o Development of renewable energy solutions using microalgae
o Innovative wastewater treatment using algae-based systems
o Overcoming industrial challenges in microalgal production
Appendix: We invite submissions of original research articles, mini-reviews, reviews, methods papers, technology reports, perspectives, and opinion articles focusing on recent advances in the application of microalgae biotechnology towards achieving the sustainable development goals.