Biofuels and algae.



9 September 2020

The production of fuel for cars from genetically modified algae, which was quite a hot topic a few years ago but is now almost entirely unheard of, currently appears to be a minor issue for biotech companies. Fuel producers want to squeeze as much as possible from the remaining available oil deposits, which are lining their pockets. It seems that the less fuel available in rock layers, the greater the profits for these producers, especially refineries. However, genetically modified algae are still a distant prospect, especially those that could produce fuel, whether methane, isooctane, or other hydrocarbons that can be burned for energy. Looking at the economies of the most developed countries over the years, little has changed for less affluent citizens. In some places, solar cells are used more extensively, while in others, renewable resources like biomass are discussed differently. However, the general pattern remains the same for now. Looking back over the past 40 years, during which I've had the opportunity to observe civilization's progress on my own planet, here in Poland, I've noticed that people are constantly trying to enter a new era of technology without changing their own habits; no one wants to give up the comfortable situation they've built over the years. The biggest impediment to progress isn't the Church, but rather a lack of a motivated vision and the desire to enrich themselves beyond measure. Where would we all be if the distribution of capital weren't so detrimental to civilization? What a nuisance it is that capital is in the hands of those who harm the common good? Gaining capital, even billions, isn't simple or easy. It requires economically trampling many others along the way, milking others of their capital. Capitalism is a predatory form of existence, where you're sometimes the predator and sometimes the prey. This situation is no different on the plane of chemical propulsion, and we're currently witnessing a struggle in which some companies will lose and others will win. Let's take a look at what's happening in many industries and consumer electronics, and how film recording technology has changed over the years. It started with celluloid?film?then came VHS tapes, CDs, DVDs, flash drives, and finally streaming media. Those who were able to adapt quickly succeeded. The problem, however, is that when it comes to producing fuel for cars, it's very difficult for the economy to abandon crude oil and replace it with, for example, biodiesel.