Energy from algae in Sweden

The beaches of Trelleborg in southern Sweden are coated with algae each summer, choking marine life and disrupting holidays for tourists. But the green gloop may also hold huge economic and ecological benefits for the region. Scientists believe the reeds and plankton can used in the production of biogas. The fast-growing seaweed is being harvested on a large scale towards that purpose.

In the long term, the project is meant to include several Baltic Sea states. Sweden and Poland are leading the way. A biogas pilot plant is coming up in Sweden while Poland plans a small mobile biogas facility on the Baltic Sea. In Sweden, the project is to focus on using the biogas as engine fuel for trucks, thus lowering the dependance on fossil fuels in vehicular traffic. In Poland, the aim is to develop an alternative energy source.

A film by Holger Trzeczak

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