Análise de impactos ambientais e valorização da produção de Chlorella em efluentes : uma abordagem sustentável para a biorremediação e a biomassa renovável.

Abstract

Although microalgae biomass cultivation offers promising benefits, comprehensive life cycle assessments and cost-benefit analyzes are necessary to ensure it is sustainable and cost-effective compared to conventional biomass sources. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of the environmental aspects related to the production of microalgae biomass was carried out, considering different scenarios and supplements. Initially, a literature review was carried out focused on the removal of organic contaminants by microalgae of the genus Chlorella. It was found that using mainly the mixotrophic mode, removal occurs by bioadsorption, bioaccumulation and bioabsorption or biodegradation. Although there have been successes in studies to remove pesticides and pharmaceuticals, these and other emerging contaminants still represent a challenge. In a second step, based on data from Chlorella cultivation in sanitary effluent with different scenarios, the analysis of the life cycle of these crops was evaluated, in which glycerol as a supplement in sanitary effluent generated smaller impacts on biomass production when compared to other crops; however, it depends on the purpose for which the biomass will be used. Finally, a rapid environmental impact assessment approach was carried out based on the Leopold matrix, which showed that the use of effluents in general in the cultivation of microalgae may represent a greater risk than when compared to cultivation in conventional media. In view of problems that may arise, such as spills in the soil, risks to worker health when handling effluents that may contain contaminants, the contribution of experts is essential to ensure that microalgae cultivation is conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner. Therefore, the LCA and rapid environmental assessment matrix can offer valuable insights for making sustainable decisions in microalgae production.