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Aim:

To test, in a first pilot-scale approach, a microalgal-based bioremediation technology to be employed by the Mexican water sector and generate biomass of international interest. The potential to develop a secondary value stream through biomass conversion to products will ensure the bi-lateral links are maintained but critically, that economic sustainable growth is realised.

Vision:

Demonstrate the benefits of microalga-ozone-flotation technology in remediation of urban water for reuse as safe water and the production of new biomass with potential use to produce biofuels, bioplastics or bio-nutrients, which will allow diversification of the Mexican and British economy.

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Project description:

Mexico City suffers from air contingencies limiting school attendance, and outdoor activities. People are also warned to avoid places irrigated with treated water. The pilot-scale prototype will show how it can decrease carbon emissions and improve water treatment, both issues affecting children and elderly people.  Deploying the system in the next 5 years, will increase air and water quality in different locations. This contributes to meet SDG 6 by increasing clean water availability, help halving the proportion of untreated wastewater, and give a global example in recycling and safe water reuse. The project will calculate the amount of CO2 used projecting its contribution to global commitments made by 2020 to United Nations.

A demonstration prototype accompanied with a business case will contribute to decrease economic and feasibility obstacles that water innovations face for their commercial uptake. Our activities will generate a renovated interest in the water-algal sector, attracting business investors in the short-term and green sources of employment in the long-term. This will help global efforts to meet SDG8 by promoting sustainable economic growth. Mexico has an ideal climate for micro algae growth hence, outcomes from this collaboration will help industrialize a feasible water reuse technology, setting-up the foundations for commercial intake. So far the microalgae industry has not flown due to the non-feasibility of using synthetic medium for algae.

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