Microalgae-based treatment for wastewater management and valorization

Abstract

Wastewater treatment is a critical process for building a water-resilient economy, ensuring pollutant removal before environmental discharge. Conventional treatment methods, though effective, are energy-intensive, reliant on chemical processes, and generate large volumes of sludge, posing economic and environmental challenges. In recent years, microalgae-based wastewater treatment has emerged as a promising alternative due to its potential for efficient nutrient removal, biomass valorization, and carbon sequestration. However, despite its advantages, large-scale implementation remains constrained by operational costs, biomass harvesting inefficiencies, and variable treatment performance. Recent advancements in techno-economic assessments, bioprocess optimization, and multiomics approaches have improved system efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and bioproduct recovery. This study reviews the latest developments, opportunities, and challenges in microalgal wastewater treatment, providing insights into its feasibility and future prospects. A comprehensive understanding of emerging technologies and integrated system approaches will be crucial in advancing microalgal-based solutions for sustainable wastewater management.