Bangkok: The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has announced a collaboration with the private sector to develop microalgae as a source of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This initiative is expected to yield results within one to two years, highlighting a more economical alternative to using used frying oil.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at promoting microalgae cultivation for SAF production and animal feed derived from microalgae waste. The event was attended by key figures including Ms. Phattharaporn Sojaya, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ms. Pinmanee Kaewduangsi, Director of Advanced Biocarbon Co., Ltd., and Mr. Dechaphon Lertsuwanroj, CEO and President of BBGI Public Company Limited. This MOU represents a mutual commitment to the study and technological development of microalgae cultivation and oil extraction, as well as the production of animal feed from waste. It also establishes a framework for information exchange, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of sustainable biological resource utilization.
Mr. Atthakorn emphasized the collaboration’s significance in promoting efficient and environmentally friendly resource use. He noted that this effort positions Thailand as a potential leader in biotechnology and clean energy, offering new products that could enhance economic opportunities for local farming communities. This initiative marks a pivotal moment for energy and agricultural innovation in Thailand, heralding advancements that will foster a stable and sustainable future.
Mr. Dechapon highlighted the readiness of all three parties to support the microalgae development initiative through research, data sharing, and academic cooperation. The Ministry of Agriculture, Advanced Biocarbon Co., Ltd., and BBGI will work together to finalize a cultivation methodology before beginning microalgae cultivation at a planned community enterprise. BBGI’s existing experience in producing alternative energy from plants positions it strongly for this venture.
Mr. Dechapon also mentioned that BBGI, a part of the Bangchak Group, already operates a SAF production plant using used frying oil. In contrast, microalgae-based SAF production is less complex and more cost-effective, as it avoids the need to remove contaminants. The development of SAF from microalgae is anticipated to become a reality within one to two years, leveraging this high-oil-producing plant discovered by Mie University in Japan three years ago.