Q.6. Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage. [UPSC 2023 GS P-3]

Microorganisms play a crucial role in addressing the current fuel shortage through various processes. Let’s explore some ways in which they contribute:

• Bioethanol Production:
  • Microorganisms like Saccharomyces cerevisiae are used in bioethanol production. For instance, Brazil effectively produces ethanol from sugarcane, which serves as a primary fuel for automobiles in the region.
  • Bioethanol is a renewable fuel derived from organic materials through fermentation.
• Biomethanation:
  • In Biomethanation plants, microorganisms convert organic waste (such as food scraps) into methane (biogas). This process provides a substantial source of renewable energy and reduces dependency on fossil fuels.
• Algal Biofuels:
  • Companies like Algenol and Sapphire Energy in the USA are pioneers in developing technologies to produce biofuels from algae. Algae can convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into biofuels like biodiesel.
• Bio-Hydrogen Production:
  • Certain bacteria, such as Enterobacter aerogenes, are utilized in biohydrogen production processes. South Korea has successfully incorporated biohydrogen as part of its renewable energy strategy.
• Microbial Fuel Cells:
  • In microbial fuel cells, Geobacter sulfurreducens can oxidize organic compounds to generate electricity. Pilot projects in places like the United States harness this potential to treat wastewater while simultaneously generating power.
• Synthetic Biology:
  • Advances in synthetic biology have led to the creation of genetically modified microorganisms with enhanced biofuel production capabilities. For example, Amyris, a company in the USA, uses synthetic biology to produce biofuels from sugars through yeast fermentation.
• Enhanced Oil Recovery:
  • Microbes can be used to enhance the recovery of oil from reservoirs. They break down complex hydrocarbons, making them more accessible for extraction.
• Carbon Capture and Storage:
  • Microorganisms can capture and store carbon dioxide from industrial processes. They convert CO2 into stable minerals, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

In summary, microorganisms offer promising solutions to the fuel shortage through bioprocessing, biofuels, biogas, hydrogen, methane, and waste-to-energy. These methods reduce fossil fuel use and promote renewable energy.