藻類ベースの廃水処理の世界市場：2025年～2032年

藻類ベースの廃水処理の世界市場は、2024年に26億5,000万米ドルに達し、2032年までには41億9,000万米ドルに達すると予測され、予測期間中の2025年から2032年のCAGRは5.89%で成長する見込みです。

藻類ベースの廃水処理市場は、水質汚染に関する懸念の高まりと持続可能な廃水管理ソリューションの必要性によって、継続的な成長を遂げています。藻類ベースの処理システムは、微細藻類を利用して廃水から窒素、リン酸、重金属、有機物を効率的に除去し、同時にバイオ燃料、肥料、飼料などの貴重な製品別を生産します。

世界経済と人口の急速な拡大により水不足が深刻化し、廃水処理は世界の急務となっています。様々な廃水環境で繁殖する微細藻類は、工業排水や都市排水から汚染物質を除去するのに大きな効果を発揮します。藻類ベースの処理の効率を向上させる革新的な方法が次々と登場しています。

Mongabayによる2024年12月のレポートでは、インドの研究者が開発した、廃水から有害なアンモニウムを除去するための新しい微細藻類-細菌コンソーシアムが紹介されています。この技術は、藻類の光合成能力を利用して酸素を発生させるもので、従来の曝気法に比べてエネルギー費用を90％も削減できます。インドの深刻な廃水危機を考えると、この技術革新は特に適切です。

2022年のNiti Aayogの調査によると、インドの農村部では39,604MLDの廃水が発生しており、一方、都市部では72,368MLDの廃水が発生しています（2020年～2021年）。これらの発見は、水の制約を緩和し、環境の持続可能性を向上させる藻類ベースのソリューションの有望性を浮き彫りにしています。

ダイナミクス

促進要因1-原材料依存の削減

従来の廃水処理技術は、エネルギーを大量に消費する曝気と化学化合物に大きく依存しており、運転コストと環境への悪影響を高めています。藻類技術は、光合成を利用して廃水を自然に酸素化することで、持続可能なソリューションを提供し、エネルギー使用量を大幅に削減し、化学物質への依存を最小限に抑えます。

最近の調査によると、公共施設の上下水道インフラは世界の電力使用量の3％から7％を占めており、曝気システムは処理プラントのエネルギー支出の60％から70％を占めています。曝気を藻類ベースの処理に置き換えることで、施設はエネルギー消費を削減し、運営効率を高めることができます。

これは、脱炭素化への世界の取り組みにおいて特に有益であり、オフグリッド廃水処理ソリューションの促進にもつながります。OneWaterのような企業は、4つのオフグリッドシステムの開発を進めており、エネルギーに依存しない処理施設の実現可能性を示しています。従来の第三次処理技術は、塩化第二鉄や硫酸第二鉄のような化学薬品に依存しており、二酸化炭素排出を悪化させ、サプライ・チェーン・リスクをもたらしています。

藻類技術は、そのような添加物の必要性を排除するため、費用を削減し、有害な副産物の排出を軽減します。EUの2022年廃水枠組指令を含む規制圧力の高まりにより、藻類ベースのソリューションは、経済的かつ環境的に持続可能な廃水管理、特にPacific Bioが藻類ベースの栄養塩管理イニシアチブを実行しているオーストラリアのGreat Barrier Reef流域のようなデリケートな生態系において、不可欠になってきています。

促進要因2-藻類ベースの肥料の役割の高まり

藻類ベースの肥料は、持続可能な農業への世界の移行に伴い、土壌破壊につながる従来の化学肥料に代わる、環境に優しい肥料として開発されつつあります。農業は世界の水使用量の80％を占めており、土壌の健全性を向上させ、水消費量を減らす持続可能なソリューションへの需要が高まっています。

藻類を原料とする肥料は、窒素、リン酸、カリウムを含む重要な栄養素の天然供給源となり、土壌の生産性を高め、保水性と栄養保持力を向上させます。エネルギー集約的で化石燃料に依存する合成肥料に代わる、有機的で持続可能な肥料であるため、低炭素経済の推進に大きく貢献します。藻類を原料とする肥料は、液体エキス、顆粒、粉末などさまざまな形態があり、野菜、果物、観葉植物、芝草など、さまざまな作物への有用性を高めています。

政府の奨励策と技術革新は、藻類由来肥料の普及を促進しています。EUの共通農業政策では、持続可能な農法を採用する農家に資金を割り当てています。Yaraのような企業は、2023年7月に中国で初の水溶性肥料施設を開設するなどの取り組みに投資しており、持続可能な農業投入物へのシフトを支援しています。

抑制要因：藻類バイオマス収穫に伴う高コストと複雑さ

微細藻類は廃水浄化に有用であるにもかかわらず、増殖が速く、表面電荷がマイナスであるため、容易に収穫できる大きな粒子に凝集するのが複雑です。さらに、藻類の乾燥重量は溶液全体の0.05%に過ぎないため、収穫プロセスが複雑になります。

藻類バイオマスの収穫にかかる経済的コストは相当なもので、生産費全体の30％にも達します。これは主に、様々な収穫方法に必要なエネルギー消費によるもので、その方法は1立方メートルあたり0.1kWhから15kWhと様々です。

藻類ベースの廃水処理システムの在庫費用全体の90%は、収穫と脱水装置に関連しています。多くの収穫システムが確立されていますが、それぞれに明確な限界があり、より経済的で効率的な代替手段を発見するための継続的な調査が必要です。

これらの問題は、運転経費を増加させ、全体的な経済性を低下させることにより、藻類ベースの廃水処理の普及を妨げています。廃水処理における藻類ベースのソリューションの可能性を完全に実現するためには、これらの限界を緩和することが不可欠です。

目次

第1章 調査手法と調査範囲

第2章 定義と概要

第3章 エグゼクティブサマリー

第4章 市場力学

• 影響要因
  • 促進要因
    • 原材料への依存度の低減
    • 藻類由来肥料の役割の高まり
  • 抑制要因
    • 藻類バイオマスの採取に伴う高コストと複雑さ
  • 機会
  • 影響分析

第5章 産業分析

• ポーターのファイブフォース分析
• サプライチェーン分析
• 価格分析
• 規制分析
• DMIの見解

第6章 タイプ別

• 大型藻類
• 微細藻類

第7章 技術別

• レースウェイ池
• 光バイオリアクター
• 回転式バイオフィルムリアクター

第8章 用途別

• 産業
• 市営
• 農業
• 鉱業
• その他

第9章 地域別

• 北米
  • 米国
  • カナダ
  • メキシコ
• 欧州
  • ドイツ
  • 英国
  • フランス
  • イタリア
  • スペイン
  • その他欧州地域
• 南米
  • ブラジル
  • アルゼンチン
  • その他南米
• アジア太平洋
  • 中国
  • インド
  • 日本
  • オーストラリア
  • その他アジア太平洋
• 中東・アフリカ

第10章 競合情勢

• 競合シナリオ
• 市況・シェア分析
• M&A分析

第11章 企業プロファイル

• Algotec Green Technology
  • 会社概要
  • 製品ポートフォリオと概要
  • 財務概要
  • 主な発展
• Gross-Wen Technologies（GWT）
• Liqoflux
• Agromorph
• Xylem Inc.
• Valicor Environmental Services
• Algenuity
• OriginClear Inc.
• Evodos B.V.
• MicroBio Engineering Inc.

第12章 付録

Global Algae-Based Wastewater Treatment Market reached US$ 2.65 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 4.19 billion by 2032, growing with a CAGR of 5.89% during the forecast period 2025-2032.

The Algae-Based Wastewater Treatment Market is experiencing continuous growth, driven by rising concerns regarding water pollution and the need for sustainable wastewater management solutions. Algae-based treatment systems utilize microalgae to efficiently remove nitrogen, phosphate, heavy metals and organic matter from wastewater, simultaneously producing valuable byproducts such biofuels, fertilizers and animal feed.

The swift expansion of the global economy and population has intensified water scarcity, rendering wastewater treatment a worldwide imperative. Microalgae, which flourish in various wastewater settings, have significant effectiveness in removing pollutants from industrial and urban discharges. Innovative ways are continually emerging, improving the efficiency of algae-based treatment.

A December 2024 report by Mongabay emphasizes a new microalgae-bacterial consortia developed by Indian researchers to eliminate harmful ammonium from wastewater. This technique utilizes the photosynthetic capabilities of algae to generate oxygen, hence decreasing energy expenses by as much as 90% relative to traditional aeration methods. This innovation is especially pertinent given India's severe wastewater crisis.

A 2022 Niti Aayog research stated that India's rural areas produced 39,604 MLD of wastewater, whilst urban centers produce 72,368 MLD (2020-21). These discoveries highlight the promise of algae-based solutions in mitigating water constraint and enhancing environmental sustainability.

Dynamics

Driver 1 - Reducing raw material dependence

Traditional wastewater treatment techniques depend significantly on energy-demanding aeration and chemical compounds, raising operational costs and negative environmental impacts. Algal technologies provide a sustainable solution by employing photosynthesis to naturally oxygenate wastewater, markedly decreasing energy usage and minimizing dependence on chemicals.

A recent research indicates that utility water and wastewater infrastructure constitutes 3-7% of global electricity usage, with aeration systems accounting for 60-70% of a treatment plant's energy expenditure. Substituting aeration with algae-based treatment enables facilities to reduce energy consumption and enhance operational efficiency.

This is especially beneficial in the worldwide effort for decarbonization, facilitating off-grid wastewater treatment solutions. Companies such as OneWater are progressing in the development of four off-grid systems, illustrating the viability of energy-independent treatment facilities. Traditional tertiary treatment techniques rely on chemicals like ferric chloride and ferric sulfate, which exacerbate carbon emissions and pose supply chain risks.

Algal technologies obviate the necessity for such additives, hence decreasing expenses and mitigating the emission of deleterious byproducts. Due to escalating regulatory pressures, including the EU's 2022 Wastewater Framework Directive, algae-based solutions are becoming vital for economical and environmentally sustainable wastewater management, especially in delicate ecosystems such as Australia's Great Barrier Reef catchment, where Pacific Bio is executing algae-based nutrient management initiatives.

Driver 2 - The rising role of algae-based fertilizer

Algae-based fertilizers are developing as an eco-friendly substitute for traditional chemical fertilizers, which have led to soil damage, with the global transition to sustainable agriculture methods. Agriculture constitutes up to 80% of worldwide water usage, leading to a heightened demand for sustainable solutions that improve soil health and decrease water consumption.

Algae-based fertilizers provide a natural source of vital nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphate and potassium, enhancing soil productivity and improving water and nutrient retention. Their contribution to promoting a low-carbon economy is substantial, as they offer an organic and sustainable substitute for synthetic fertilizers, which are energy-intensive and dependent on fossil fuels. The presence of algae-based fertilizers in many forms, such as liquid extracts, granules and powders, enhances their utility for a variety of crops, including vegetables, fruits, decorative plants and turfgrass.

Government incentives and technological innovations facilitate the deployment of algae-derived fertilizers. The EU Common Agricultural Policy allocates funding for farmers adopting sustainable practices, while companies like Yara are investing in initiatives such as the July 2023 opening of its inaugural water-soluble fertilizer facility in China, thereby supporting the shift towards sustainable agricultural inputs.

Restraint: High cost and complexity associated with algae biomass harvest

Fast proliferation and negative surface charge complicate the aggregation into bigger, easily harvestable particles even though the microalgae are useful in wastewater cleanup, their diminutive size. Moreover, the dry weight of algae comprises merely 0.05% of the whole solution, hence complicating the harvesting process.

The financial cost of harvesting algal biomass is considerable, representing up to 30% of overall production expenditures. This is primarily because of the substantial energy expenditure necessary for different harvesting procedures, which can vary from 0.1 to 15 kWh per cubic meter, contingent upon the method utilized.

As much as 90% of the overall inventory expenses in algae-based wastewater treatment systems are associated with harvesting and dewatering apparatus. Although numerous harvesting systems have been established, each has distinct limitations, requiring continuous research to discover more economical and efficient alternatives.

These issues impede the widespread implementation of algae-based wastewater treatment by elevating operational expenses and diminishing overall economic viability. Mitigating these limits is essential for realizing the complete potential of algae-based solutions in wastewater treatment.

Segment Analysis

The global algae-based wastewater treatment market is segmented based on type, technology, application and region.

Advances in raceway pond technology for efficient algae cultivation

Raceway pond technology has emerged as a significant approach in algae-based wastewater treatment, utilizing the inherent capabilities of microalgae to assimilate nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, transforming them into biomass while emitting oxygen via photosynthesis. This technique facilitates bacterial activity in wastewater, assisting in the remediation of diverse pollutants.

Traditionally limited to laboratory environments, raceway ponds and photobioreactors are being utilized in practical wastewater treatment applications, including brewery wastewater. Raceway ponds has a semi-circular configuration at each end, characterized by a shallow open system in which paddle wheels perpetually agitate microalgae in wastewater to guarantee sufficient access to nutrients and sunshine.

Various microalgae strains can effectively treat diverse industrial effluent; nevertheless, elevated total suspended solids (TSS) levels pose a significant difficulty. A novel technique has been created to efficiently eliminate TSS from industrial effluent, rendering it appropriate for microalgae production. This innovation improves treatment efficiency, facilitating the production of value-added algae.

In recent years, In-pond Raceway Systems (IPRS) have enhanced sustainability in Chinese aquaculture. IPRS technology, developed by Jesse Chappell of Auburn University and financed by the US Soybean Council, has enhanced aquaculture techniques by increasing yields in big carp ponds. By the end of last year, China had more than 6,000 IPRS cells in production, highlighting the adaptability and worldwide applicability of raceway pond systems.

Geographical Penetration

Sustainable Algae-Based Wastewater Treatment in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is progressively emerging as a leader in the algae-based wastewater treatment market, driven by environmental challenges, industrial expansion and a dedication to sustainable solutions. Algae-based systems are increasingly recognized for their efficacy in eliminating nutrients and pollutants from wastewater while concurrently generating valuable byproducts such as biofuels and fertilizers.

In June 2024, an important breakthrough in this industry emerged when SUEZ, an established global organization in circular solutions for water and waste management, unveiled the initiation of three substantial projects in Singapore, China and the Philippines. The initiatives presented at the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) emphasize the implementation of digital solutions, seawater desalination and water reuse technologies to tackle the escalating issues of water scarcity and pollution in the region.

These examples demonstrate the significant significance of algae-based systems in enhancing water quality and bolstering water management resilience in municipal and industrial sectors during climate change. SUEZ's dedication to advancing circular solutions in the region represents a significant measure in addressing water challenges in some of Asia's most densely populated and industrialized locales.

In October 2022, Xylem Water Solutions Singapore collaborated with Gross-Wen Technologies Inc. (GWT) on a combined research and development initiative to implement Revolving Algal Biofilm (RAB(R)) technology in Singapore. This algae-based wastewater treatment technique facilitates nutrient recovery, diminishes the carbon footprint of water utilities and demonstrates excellent efficacy in the treatment of industrial and municipal wastewater.

The RAB(R) technology signifies progress in sustainable wastewater treatment, particularly in densely populated areas such as Singapore, where creative solutions are essential to address increasing water demands. These findings indicate the growing implementation of algae-based technology in the region, propelled by environmental requirements and progress in sustainable water management methods.

Competitive Landscape

The major Global players in the market include Algotec Green Technology, Gross-Wen Technologies (GWT), Liqoflux, Agromorph, Xylem Inc., Valicor Environmental Services, Algenuity originClear Inc., Evodos B.V. and MicroBio Engineering Inc.

By Type

• Macroalgae
• Microalgae

By Technology

• Raceway Ponds
• Photobioreactors
• Rotating Biofilm Reactors

By Application

• Industrial
• Municipal
• Agricultural
• Mining
• Others

By Region

• North America
• South America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

• January 16, 2025, Gross-Wen Technologies developed a system to grow algae on vertical conveyor belts, aiming to reduce the cost of algae production. The system originally intended for biofuel production, was later adapted for wastewater treatment. It effectively digests nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, reducing harmful effluent and preventing algal blooms. This shift from biofuels to wastewater treatment opened up new opportunities for algae-based solutions in environmental management.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global algae-based wastewater treatment market segmentation based on type, technology, application and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of the Algae-Based Wastewater Treatment market with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global algae-based wastewater treatment market report would provide approximately 62 tables, 54 figures and 202 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies

Table of Contents

1. Methodology and Scope

• 1.1. Research Methodology
• 1.2. Research Objective and Scope of the Report

2. Definition and Overview

3. Executive Summary

• 3.1. Snippet by Type
• 3.2. Snippet by Technology
• 3.3. Snippet by Application
• 3.4. Snippet by Region

4. Dynamics

• 4.1. Impacting Factors
  • 4.1.1. Drivers
    • 4.1.1.1. Reducing raw material dependence
    • 4.1.1.2. The rising role of algae-based fertilizer
  • 4.1.2. Restraints
    • 4.1.2.1. High cost and complexity associated with algae biomass harvest
  • 4.1.3. Opportunity
  • 4.1.4. Impact Analysis

5. Industry Analysis

• 5.1. Porter's Five Force Analysis
• 5.2. Supply Chain Analysis
• 5.3. Pricing Analysis
• 5.4. Regulatory Analysis
• 5.5. DMI Opinion

6. By Type

• 6.1. Introduction
  • 6.1.1. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Type
  • 6.1.2. Market Attractiveness Index, By Type
• 6.2. Macroalgae*
  • 6.2.1. Introduction
  • 6.2.2. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%)
• 6.3. Microalgae

7. By Technology

• 7.1. Introduction
  • 7.1.1. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Technology
  • 7.1.2. Market Attractiveness Index, By Technology
• 7.2. Raceway Ponds*
  • 7.2.1. Introduction
  • 7.2.2. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%)
• 7.3. Photobioreactors
• 7.4. Rotating Biofilm Reactors

8. By Application

• 8.1. Introduction
  • 8.1.1. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Application
  • 8.1.2. Market Attractiveness Index, By Application
• 8.2. Industrial*
  • 8.2.1. Introduction
  • 8.2.2. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%)
• 8.3. Municipal
• 8.4. Agricultural
• 8.5. Mining
• 8.6. Others

9. By Region

• 9.1. Introduction
  • 9.1.1. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Region
  • 9.1.2. Market Attractiveness Index, By Region
• 9.2. North America
  • 9.2.1. Introduction
  • 9.2.2. Key Region-Specific Dynamics
  • 9.2.3. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Type
  • 9.2.4. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Technology
  • 9.2.5. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Application
  • 9.2.6. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Country
    • 9.2.6.1. US
    • 9.2.6.2. Canada
    • 9.2.6.3. Mexico
• 9.3. Europe
  • 9.3.1. Introduction
  • 9.3.2. Key Region-Specific Dynamics
  • 9.3.3. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Type
  • 9.3.4. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Technology
  • 9.3.5. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Application
  • 9.3.6. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Country
    • 9.3.6.1. Germany
    • 9.3.6.2. UK
    • 9.3.6.3. France
    • 9.3.6.4. Italy
    • 9.3.6.5. Spain
    • 9.3.6.6. Rest of Europe
• 9.4. South America
  • 9.4.1. Introduction
  • 9.4.2. Key Region-Specific Dynamics
  • 9.4.3. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Type
  • 9.4.4. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Technology
  • 9.4.5. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Application
  • 9.4.6. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Country
    • 9.4.6.1. Brazil
    • 9.4.6.2. Argentina
    • 9.4.6.3. Rest of South America
• 9.5. Asia-Pacific
  • 9.5.1. Introduction
  • 9.5.2. Key Region-Specific Dynamics
  • 9.5.3. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Type
  • 9.5.4. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Technology
  • 9.5.5. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Application
  • 9.5.6. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Country
    • 9.5.6.1. China
    • 9.5.6.2. India
    • 9.5.6.3. Japan
    • 9.5.6.4. Australia
    • 9.5.6.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
• 9.6. Middle East and Africa
  • 9.6.1. Introduction
  • 9.6.2. Key Region-Specific Dynamics
  • 9.6.3. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Type
  • 9.6.4. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Technology
  • 9.6.5. Market Size Analysis and Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), By Application

10. Competitive Landscape

• 10.1. Competitive Scenario
• 10.2. Market Positioning/Share Analysis
• 10.3. Mergers and Acquisitions Analysis

11. Company Profiles

• 11.1. Algotec Green Technology*
  • 11.1.1. Company Overview
  • 11.1.2. Product Portfolio and Description
  • 11.1.3. Financial Overview
  • 11.1.4. Key Developments
• 11.2. Gross-Wen Technologies (GWT)
• 11.3. Liqoflux
• 11.4. Agromorph
• 11.5. Xylem Inc.
• 11.6. Valicor Environmental Services
• 11.7. Algenuity
• 11.8. OriginClear Inc.
• 11.9. Evodos B.V.
• 11.10. MicroBio Engineering Inc.

LIST NOT EXHAUSTIVE

12. Appendix

• 12.1. About Us and Services
• 12.2. Contact Us