At the crossroads of science and sustainability, the Institute of Life Technologies at HES-SO Valais/Wallis is harnessing the untapped potential of microalgae. These microscopic organisms, often referred to as “green gold,” are proving to be a game-changer in biotechnology, offering solutions for renewable energy, environmental protection, and human health.

A nugget for sustainable innovation

The Institute of Life Technologies is actively involved in cutting-edge research to unlock the secrets of microalgae. Their work spans several key areas:

• Bioremediation: Microalgae can naturally absorb pollutants, offering eco-friendly solutions for wastewater treatment and environmental cleanup.
• Biofuels: As a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, microalgae can be cultivated for lipid production, which can then be converted into biodiesel and other biofuels.
• High-value compounds: These tiny organisms are packed with valuable compounds like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and pigments, making them ideal for applications in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

Microalgae’s big pluses

What makes microalgae particularly exciting is their environmental impact. Unlike traditional crops, they do not require arable land or large amounts of fresh water to grow. Instead, they can be cultivated in controlled environments, making them a sustainable resource that aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and preserve natural ecosystems.

In summary, microalgae offer a compelling alternative to traditional resources due to several key advantages:

• Rapid growth: They grow much faster than terrestrial plants, allowing for quicker production cycles.
• Minimal land use: Microalgae can be cultivated in ponds or photobioreactors, requiring minimal arable land.
• CO2 sequestration: They absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, contributing to greenhouse gas reduction.

A collaborative effort

The success of this research is not only due to the expertise housed at HES-SO Valais/Wallis but also to its collaborative approach. The institute works closely with industry partners and other research institutions to accelerate the development of innovative solutions. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, they ensure that their discoveries can be scaled up and applied in real-world contexts.

As the demand for environmentally friendly technologies grows, microalgae are poised to play an increasingly critical role across multiple sectors. Thanks to the pioneering work being conducted at HES-SO Valais/Wallis, Switzerland is positioning itself as a leader in this transformative field.

Video : Phycocyanin production in the biotechnology pilot plant at the Life Sciences Institute

In this video (in French), you can discover the work being carried out by the School of Engineering, which is working with a small farm in Saxon (Valais) to extract compounds with high added value from microalgae :

Sources  (incl. picture & video) : HES-SO Valais/Wallis