The possibility of future biofuels production using waste carbon dioxide and solar energy

Abstract

The Earth’s energy requirements are estimated at 14 TW/y. Considering the economic development, and therefore high consumption and constantly increasing number of people in the world, it is estimated that energy demand in 2050 will be amount 28-30 TW/y. Fuels from crude oil supply about 96% of the worldwide energy demand for transport. On the other hand, known petroleum reserves are limited and will eventually run out. According to preliminary calculations, fossil fuels will be exhausted within 150-200 years. Fuel consumption causes the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, resulting in the collapse of the balance between carbon dioxide released to environment, and gas that can be absorbed by plants. It is estimated, that in case of continued use of traditional energy sources by 2030, carbon dioxide levels will rise to 40 billion Mg per year.