R ESE AR C H C AS ES TU D Y
Algal biotechnology for Wales
Algal Biotechnology for Wales – Knowledge Transfer Centre
Swansea University’s Centre for
Sustainable Aquaculture Research
(CSAR) has successfully obtained
funding, until Spring 2013, for a
Knowledge Transfer Centre: The Algal
Biotechnology for Wales KTC.
● Access to demonstration and
training facilities
Microalgae are a diverse group of
single celled plants which convert
carbon dioxide and nitrogenous
wastes into living material and a
variety of potentially valuable products.
Microalgal biotechnology exploits
these properties for commercial gain
and the associated benefits to the
environment.
“Microalgal
Biotechnology can assist
the development of
novel products, markets
and environmental
services. Welsh
enterprises now have
the opportunity to benefit
with our expertise and
via our unique and fully
accessible facilities”
KTCs are funded by WAG and ERDF
via the academia for business
scheme. Algal Biotechnology for
Wales aims to provide applied
research and development for a broad
spectrum of enterprises across Wales.
For this purpose, the KTC has
commissioned two 600L algal growth
systems (“photobioreactors” or PBRs),
currently the largest publicly
accessible facility of its kind in the UK.
● Information on biotechnology
funding opportunities and
policy/strategy
Dr Robin Shields
Research Director,
Algal Biotechnology for Wales KTC, CSAR
enterprises. Potential examples of
projects include:
● Industry/power stations, municipal
waste companies, food producers – by
using waste products to culture algae
and monitoring removal of compounds
such as carbon dioxide and nitrates;
● Pharmaceutical, cosmetics and
nutrition sectors – by providing raw
and refined algal biomass and
subsequent analysis for valuable
compounds;
● Biofuel, transport companies and
PBR components - assessment
renewable energy feedstock by
optimising energy efficient cell culture
and extraction.
Following a successful networking and
information forum in late October, the
KTC will continue to host regular
themed and interactive events.
If you would like to find out more,
please contact the Knowledge
Transfer officer, Dr Adam Powell
(a.powell@swansea.ac.uk)
Benefits to business
In particular the KTC will aim to
provide:
● Alternative waste remediation and
carbon capture technology
● Assistance with new product,
process and service development
The KTC was recently described as a
case study in the Welsh Assembly
government Sustainable Development
Annual Report 2009-10. The purpose
of the Algal Biotechnology for Wales is
to assist a variety of businesses and
www.algaektc.com
www.aquaculturewales.com
www.swansea.ac.uk