When you think of algae, you may picture green organisms growing in ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams. Based on its appearance, algae doesn’t seem like an exciting organism. However, that’s not the case at all! Keep reading to learn about the ways that algae can be beneficial to humans.
Serve as an Energy Source
Microalgae has a high protein and oil content that can produce energy for various sources. For instance, it can produce animal feed or biofuels. Algae is also rich in nutrients, which humans use to create dietary supplements to improve their health. Algae is a helpful energy source whether it is being consumed by individuals or used to create other items.
Helps Wastewater Treatment
The idea of organisms living in a water supply can make someone feel uneasy. However, the role of microorganisms in wastewater treatment is a significant one. Essentially, algae can provide the oxygen that bacteria need to contribute to the treatment process. In an aeration tank, the bacteria consume the oxygen in the water. After consumption, the bacteria sink to the bottom of the tank. This allows scientists to remove the biological waste and potentially reuse the water.
Contains Awesome Health Benefits
Another way that algae can be beneficial to humans is that it yields awesome health benefits. Edible algae such as seaweed, sea moss, chlorella, and spirulina offer nutrients and are rich in vitamins. They’re great sources of iron, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, algae facilitate cell turnover, which helps your body heal from wounds.
Doesn’t Compete With Agriculture
Algae development uses land that’s unsuitable for traditional agriculture and water sources that are unusable for other crops. Algae growth and development can happen without disrupting standard agriculture.
Creates More Job Opportunities
Algae can grow in various climates. Given the different uses and benefits of algae, people can extract and utilize it for different things, thus creating a variety of jobs throughout the world. This organism has remarkable applications in research, engineering, construction, and farming. People can break into this side of the agricultural industry and work with the other innovators in the field!
