Conclusion

Macroalgal species with the higher carbohydrate content is vital for bioethanol production. Algal biomass consists of carbohydrates in the form of structural (cellulose) and storage (starch) polysaccharides, hydrolysis of these polysaccharides results in monosaccharides (fermentable sugars) which serve as substrate for fermentation. Pretreatment using chemical and biological method is prerequisite for ethanol production. Wild bacterial/fungal strains are explored for enzyme production having higher catalytic activity. Fermentative efficiency of wild yeast strain Pichia kudriavzevii in fermenting macroalgal biomass was elucidated with a case study using green macroalgae E. intestinalis. Macroalgal biomass in addition being a viable feedstock for bioethanol production, there is scope for utilization of different by-products as well as high value-added products. Bioethanol production would address the growing needs of the transportation sector, helps in mitigating GHG footprint in the transportation sector and ensures the strategic energy security of the nation. Judicious use of feedstock (macroalgae, agricultural residues) would aid in lowering import burdens, while empowering rural women with the sustainable livelihood through integrated approaches in fishery, etc

Acknowledgement

The authors are grateful to (i) ISRO-IISc Space Technology Cell [ISTC/BES/TVR/389] (ii) Gajanana and Madhavi Hegde [CES/TVR/GJH001] endowment for biofuel research for the financial support and (iii) the NRDMS Division, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India [CES/TVR/DST1045]; (iv) Indian Institute of Science [R1011] for the infrastructure support and colleagues at EWRG, IISc field station, Kumta for assistance during the field sampling.