Can algal biotechnology bring effective solution for closing the phosphorus cycle? Use of algae for nutrient removal – review of past trends and future perspectives in the context of nutrient recovery

Abstract

Eutrophication of water by nutrient pollution is a global environmental issue. Biological methods for removing nutrients are environmentally friendly and sustainable. Therefore, this article summarizes main trends in the use of algae for removing nutrients from wastewater using both suspended and attached algal-based systems. A wide variety of algal species and experimental approaches has been tested to date. Researchers report that algae are able to effectively remove a variety of pollutants and nutrients. This review also discusses the potential of algal-based technology for nutrient, especially phosphorus, recovery. Despite the fact that effective nutrient removal has been demonstrated, there are still many challenges to be overcome in the development of succesfull technologies.