Biogas production from Sargassum: challenges and implementation strategies

Abstract

Sargassum spp. is a brown marine macroalgae belonging to the genus Sargassum C. Agardh and the order Fucales, commonly found in tropical and subtropical environments. Its proliferation has increased in recent years due to climate change and other climatological factors, resulting in significant socioeconomic, environmental, and public health challenges. In response, researchers have carried out biotechnological projects focused on processing and valorizing Sargassum using a biorefinery approach. This work aims to analyze the biogas production process from Sargassum through documentary research, which allows for a discussion of the technological advancements, opportunities, and challenges associated with its conversion. A systematic literature review was conducted using search engines and the bibliographic manager EndNote X9, where intelligent groups were created based on the relevant subtopics. The results indicate that biogas production is feasible at the laboratory scale. However, its industrial scalability relies on the integration of processes focused on sustainable development, taking into account technical, economic, environmental, and social aspects.