Cyanobacteria and Microalgae Biomass Production and Valorization for Biofertilizer Products in a Sustainable and Circular Economy Approach
摘要
Cyanobacteria and microalgae-based biofertilizers (CMB) offer a promising solution for sustainable agriculture due to their bioactive metabolites, nutrient richness, and adaptability to various environmental conditions. Although previous studies have demonstrated the potential of microalgae-based fertilizer formulations, the scaled-up production and the availability of low cost algal biomass remain significant barriers to their widespread adoption. By using a bibliometric analysis, this review aims to provide an overview on cyanobacteria and microalgae cultivation systems, best practices and emerging production technologies to supply adequate algal biomass for agricultural uses. In the last decade, the bibliometric findings showed a significant increase in the number of publications (annual average of 44.33), citations per document (25.4), countries involved, and international collaboration networks, reflecting the field’s rapid expansion and growing global research interest in cyanobacteria and microalgae as a renewable raw biomass for biofertilizers production. The analysis highlighted a notable evolution and thematic shift from research topics on microalgae-based wastewater treatment processes towards integrated approaches emphasizing microalgae biomass production, nutrient waste recovery, and valorization in sustainable agriculture. Recent technological advances in cultivation systems, strain selection, integrating CMB production into a circular economy framework, and formulation strategies have brought forward innovative solutions for agricultural applications and reduction of biomass production costs. This review compiles a literature analysis on the applications of cyanobacteria and microalgae–based biofertilizers with a special focus on the latest advances in microalgae biomass production and optimization by recycling nutrients, resource recovery and reducing waste for crop growth and soil fertility in a circular-economy approach.