Visible feature: The live microalgae system designed to absorb CO2.
MICROALGAE may be microscopic in size, but their impact is significant.
These naturally occurring photosynthetic organisms are capable of absorbing up to 50 times more carbon dioxide (CO2) than terrestrial plants of the same area, depending on species and conditions.
For every kilogramme of microalgae biomass produced, approximately 1.85 kilogrammes of CO2 are captured during photosynthesis.
Harnessing this ability for climate action, a team – made up of an interuniversity alliance between Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and UCSI University together with industry partners – is working to translate laboratory research into a functional microalgae cultivation system designed to absorb CO2 from the surrounding air.
The Microalgae CO2 Capture Startup Project was recently launched at the Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology (FEGT) at UTAR’s Kampar Campus.
The microalgae tank installation not only contributes to improved air quality on campus, but also serves as a live demonstration platform for sustainability education and research, according to a press release.
The project was initiated by UTAR FEGT Department of Chemical Engineering Assoc Prof Dr Toh Pey Yi and her Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering) student Cheng Yi Sheng, whose work focuses on developing and scaling microalgae-based systems for efficient carbon capture.
The collaborators from UCSI University are Assoc Prof Dr Yeap Swee Pin and Dr Sum Jing Yao.
In his opening remarks at the launch on Dec 5 last year, UTAR vice president for student development and alumni relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong said the varsity, guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), continues to advance initiatives that integrate education, innovation and environmental responsibility.
“This project directly supports SDG 13: Climate Action, while also contributing to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals,” he said.
As part of the launch, Cheng introduced the microalgae CO2 absorption technology, sharing insights into the scientific principles and engineering approaches behind the system. Yeap and Sum also shared perspectives on energy transition, green technologies and carbon footprint mitigation strategies.
The event also included a visit to the microalgae tank installation, where a ribbon-pulling ceremony marked the commencement of operations.
The microalgae cultivation system will continue to operate as a visible feature on campus, offering opportunities for ongoing science, technology, engineering and mathematics outreach activities, knowledge transfer and public engagement.
The initiative, organised by the FEGT and the Centre for Environment and Green Technology at UTAR, together with UCSI University and the Society of Petroleum Engineers, was also made possible through the sponsorship and support from CCM Group of Companies, Greenheart Global Sdn Bhd, the Prof Nakayama Student Development Fund of FEGT, and UTAR vice president for research, development and commercialisation Prof Dr Zuraidah Abd Manaf.
