Advancing Sustainable Algae: From Cultivation to Biorefinery and Ecosystem Services

Algal biotechnology is emerging as a central field in advancing sustainable production systems for food, feed, biomaterials, and renewable energy. Recent years have seen microalgae cultivated in specialized systems such as photobioreactors and open ponds, while macroalgae are increasingly farmed in marine settings that support both robust biomass yields and ecological benefits. Despite progress, the sector faces persistent obstacles—ranging from the variability in biomass composition and vulnerability to contamination or disease, to seasonal growth limitations, nutrient and energy requirements, as well as challenges related to post-harvest processing and strict regulatory demands for food and feed applications. The last decade, in particular, has illuminated the diverse and valuable properties and functions of metabolites produced by both micro- and macroalgae, reinforcing their significance in blue biotechnology. However, the journey from promising laboratory findings to impactful, real-world applications remains mired in unresolved issues, including the need for harmonized metrics of sustainability and effective integration of modern omics, advanced cultivation methodologies, and circular bioeconomy principles.This Research Topic aims to consolidate innovative research and critical reviews that bridge the gap between the potential and real-world impact of sustainable algae. We seek to highlight new solutions that address cultivation and harvesting scalability, resource-efficient nutrient and water utilization, robust improvement of algal strains and stocks, and transparent assessments of environmental and socio-economic outcomes. The overarching objective is to drive advances that will enable algae-based systems to deliver measurable benefits for society and the planet, encompassing both experimental breakthroughs and applied, industry-oriented studies. The Topic will emphasize scalable approaches, integrated biorefinery concepts, and the demonstration of tangible improvements in both ecosystem health and human well-being.With a focus on both microalgal and macroalgal systems, the scope of this Research Topic encompasses breakthroughs from foundational science to industry-scale deployment and sustainability assessment. We are particularly interested in studies that traverse disciplinary boundaries and push the limits of resource efficiency and environmental benefit. To gather further insights in the sustainable development and application of algae, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Strain and stock discovery, culture collections, taxonomy, and trait screening• Genomics, systems biology, and metabolic engineering for enhanced production• Innovations in sustainable cultivation, farming, monitoring, and process automation• Harvesting, stabilization, extraction, and full-biomass valorization through biorefinery pathways• Bioremediation, nutrient recovery, carbon capture, and assessments of ecosystem services• Comprehensive sustainability evaluations, circularity metrics, and upscaling case studiesThis Research Topic welcomes submissions in the form of Original Research, Reviews, Mini-Reviews, Methods, Perspectives, and Brief Research Reports.-------We welcome contributions from researchers across the field, and we are glad to support you as you prepare your submission. If you would like early feedback on whether your planned manuscript fits the scope of this Research Topic, please write to us at plantscience@frontiersin.org before submitting. A quick check at this stage helps confirm your work is a strong fit and can save you time later in the process.To take part, click “Participate in this topic” at the top right of this page, then confirm through the “Participate” link in the follow-up email. This lets us know to expect your contribution, keeps you informed of key deadlines, and gives you access to resources that guide you through submission. We look forward to your participation and to building a vibrant, cohesive Research Topic together. Topic editors: Chiara Lauritano, Filip Franciszek Pniewski, Sara Damiano Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77401/advancing-sustainable-algae-from-cultivation-to-biorefinery-and-ecosystem-services