Sapphire welcomes bright minds for green crude push

Renewable energy company Sapphire Energy (SE) has taken a step closer to realising its first algae-to-energy commercial demonstration plant this month.

The US-based company has welcomed several new members to its scientific advisory board, including experts in molecular biology, plant biology, biotechnology and chemical engineering.

SE hopes that the new additions will refine its developments in making algae-based ‘green crude’ as a viable alternative fuel solution which, in turn, will help to alleviate the US’s reliance on foreign crude oil imports.

‘The research community has been supportive of our algae-to-oil solution and its potential to positively impact the ever-growing demand for alternative fuels both nationally and worldwide,’ says Sapphire Energy VP Alex Aravanis. ‘Given the many intricate complexities of cultivating algae at such a massive scale, and ever-changing technology advancements, it’s imperative that we have the best scientific and engineering minds working with us as we move towards commercialisation. We’re honoured to have such a distinguished group of individuals on board with us.’