Why is Algae the plastic of the future?
It seems like a ridiculous question, but the latest research in the agricultural sciences seem to suggest that it might be exactly correct. The latest findings in the field seem to indicate that Algae are able to create their own plastic through a process that is similar to how plants use chlorophyll for their own growth and protection. In fact, this process has been going on for billions of years, long before people were even aware that there was a whole world outside of our own existence.
Algae are just as important to plants as they are to us, with only twenty five percent of all plants actually containing algae. With such a high concentration of algae based compounds within the aquatic environment, it should come as no surprise that researchers have begun to investigate how they can use the algal world for a source of plastic. Algae are even being studied by companies who want to find a way to use Algae as a topical treatment for skin conditions such as acne. Although such research seems crazy at first, the potential applications of this new plastic make it something of a new revolution, one that has the ability to revolutionize the ways that we live.
If successful, the use of Algae as a plastic could be quite substantial. Current research suggests that there are at least ten billion gallons of water stored beneath the ocean surface. Using such an abundant supply of liquid, scientists would be able to create huge sheets of plastic that could be used to cover the ocean floor or to protect the marine ecosystem from global warming. It could also help prevent the pollution of oil through the creation of huge bubbles created by the algae and other creatures living in the ocean.
While it is still early days for the use of Algae as a plastic, the potential applications are huge. If successful, plastic made from Algae could completely change the way that industries do business. With so much plastic waste produced each day, it is clear that an alternative method of disposing of such waste is necessary in order to keep our planet clean.
If successful, the use of Algae as a plastic could revolutionize industries as large as the food industry. With no garbage, it would be possible to produce huge amounts of fuel for the automobiles of the future. This would lead to less pollution in our environment as well as having more resources available for human consumption. The creation of more algae based plastics would also allow scientists to study the properties of these algae in greater detail. If we are able to successfully utilize the energy derived from algae, it may lead to the discovery of a limitless source of energy.
Perhaps the most far-fetched of all the applications for the use of Algae is in the area of biodegradable materials. If successful, this could lead to the production of Plastic which can be used again without degrading or clogging. With more research being done into the process of digestion, it is not far away from the future that we could have an endless supply of sustainable materials. We may never run out of raw materials, if we continue to develop the technology for the manufacture of algae based plastics.
As exciting as it may seem, the reason that Algae may be the Plastic of the future is purely scientific. It has been scientifically proven that the properties of the tiny creatures called Pheomelanin that are responsible for producing the fibers of the Algae are ideal for the manufacture of high quality plastic. The proof comes from the fact that the plastic made from Pheomelanin does not degrade. It will even cut through many of the common plastics that we currently use.
The plastic that we currently use is full of toxins and plastic waste. We need to find a way to recycle this waste back into a useful product such as plastic. Algae based plastics may be the breakthrough we were waiting for.
What is Stopping Algae From Replacing Plastic For Good?
Algae are not going anywhere anytime soon. With mankind’s ever-increasing population, there will be more of this critter popping up in our water systems. They have a hardy immune system that can live for years without consuming nutrients or being affected by any form of bio degradation. Unfortunately, they have also learned how to duplicate their cells and reproduce rapidly, which has made them resistant to most forms of treatment. Therefore, with a high demand for fresh water and waste disposal systems, it is no wonder that Algae are now poised to take over the role of Plastic in replacing plastic in our lives.
Algae is one of the biggest environmental threats facing us today, and it is finally coming to a head. This fast-spreading fungal disease can spread through drains, pipes, and sewers, and with no form of control, it will eventually kill hundreds of yards of plastic. So what is stopping Algae from replacing plastic for good?
Recently, the growth and reproduction of these algae have increased at an alarming rate. In fact, scientists reported that within just one year, five billion pounds of the stuff had been consumed worldwide. The problem started when storm runoff caused sewage-water to wash away untreated for a period of time.
The washed-away bacteria contained within the water consumed by plants and animals contained too much of the wrong kind of bacteria for it to be able to survive. What is stopping Algae from replacing plastic for good? Now that scientists have confirmed the presence of excessive amounts of bacteria in too much water, it is a simple matter of taking measures to clean it up. By using a powerful biological disinfectant, this contamination can be stopped dead in its tracks.
It may not sound like much, but biocide has been said to assist with reducing all forms of bacteria in the water. By doing this, the contaminants in the water will be unable to reproduce. This bacterium is one that was recently discovered within the cores of numerous plastic bottles which contain the chemical BPA.
BPA is a chemical that is used to keep plastic hard and flexible at the same time. While it does accomplish this task to some degree, it also prevents the natural oils within our bodies from being released. It is the oiliness of our bodies that makes us want to flush away those excess oils as we go about our normal bodily functions.
Once this bacterium has been introduced into the water, it seemingly begins to multiply at an alarming rate, causing massive pollution and an environmental nightmare. Algae and other types of bacteria have also shown a great ability to reproduce in dark, humid areas, which explains why there are so many dead spots inside of big cities. Think about how much better off you would feel if all of the harmful elements were taken out of your life without you even knowing about it.
Taking a bit of time to think about what is going on, you will see that there is no way that Algae can cause any harm to the environment in any way. The risks of Bacteriaares seem to be low in how harmful it could be to the body, and Algae is even recommended by Mother Nature help keep bodies healthy.
The biggest problem that people face with this issue is that they are not doing anything to help combat the problem. Many companies have become aware of the pollution that plastics can cause but have not done enough to speed up reduce usage.
So, what is stopping Algae from replacing plastic for good? The only way to personally help solve the problem is by removing all of the plastic from life in general. Making sure that no one is filling up garbage with more than 3 gallons, because that level of waste will feed the growth of algae.
Changing to an all natural system is a great step towards keeping the environment clean and the body healthy.
Provided by Antonio Westley
Disclaimer: This article is meant to be seen as an overview of this subject and not a reflection of viewpoints or opinions as nothing is definitive. So, make sure to do your research and feel free to use this information at your own discretion.
