Slimy algae has great potential - stock photo

According to the The Washington Post, algae has great promise as an energy alternative.

“Algae, like corn, soybeans, sugar cane and other crops, grows via photosynthesis (meaning it absorbs carbon dioxide) and can be processed into fuel oil. However, the slimy aquatic organisms yield 30 times more energy per acre than land crops such as soybeans, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The reason: They have a simple cellular structure, a lipid-rich composition and a rapid reproduction rate. Many algae species also can grow in saltwater and other harsh conditions — whereas soy and corn require arable land and fresh water that will be in short supply as the world’s population balloons.”