Spirulina Microfarms are proliferating around the world
First spirulina farm in Northern California • Slideshow
Article series published in Algae Industry Magazine
1. Why algae microfarms are emerging today. Over the past 40 years, large commercial companies have produced algae food and feed products. Today, smaller farms are emerging using smart technology and modular growing systems, making it feasible to build microfarms anywhere in the world.
2. Small algae farms in the developing world. In India, appropriate scale low cost technology has been sponsored by government agencies and NGOs. In Africa, village projects were pioneered by humanitarian groups from Europe, Dr. Ripley Fox and Antenna Technologies.
3. Algaepreneurs and the microfarm movement in France. Since many humanitarian organizations supporting developing world algae village farms originated from France, microfarms in the developed world began in France, where there are now over 100 algaepreneurs growing food for local markets.
4. Algae microfarms for family and community cultivation are coming. Over the past 30 years, many people have asked they can grow algae themselves in their own back yard. One of the most common requests has been “How can I grow my own algae?”
5. Microfarms and bioreactors in modular systems. Algae are being grown in outdoor ponds, greenhouses, photo bioreactors and hybrid systems. As new technologies and systems design arrive, algae microfarms will be less costly, easier and more accessible for more people around the world.
ALGAE MICROFARMS BOOK
Chapters: Introduction 1. Why algae microfarms are emerging today 2. Small algae farms in the developing world 3. Algaepreneurs and microfarms in France 4. Growing at home and in community 5. Modular systems 6. Future visions of algae systems 7. Production, products and potential 8. Imagine our algae future – Algae Competition 9. Grow your own spirulina 10. Smart algae microfarms slideshow 11. Personal journey from small to large to small 12. References and author biographies.
