News Article
BRIN and Alam Semesta Integra Develop Microalgae-Based CCUS
Kredit: Bisnis.com
Bisnis.com, JAKARTA – The Research Center for Limnology and Water Resources (PRLSDA) of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), together with the Earth and Maritime Research Organization (ORKM), is collaborating with PT Alam Semesta Integra (ASI) in the development of microalgae-based CCUS (Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage) photobioreactor technology.Head of PRLSDA BRIN, Luki Subehi, stated that this collaboration is an important step in supporting the development of microalgae-based CCUS technology. Luki explained that microalgae have great potential in capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) gas through the process of photosynthesis.
"The resulting biomass not only plays a role in carbon emission mitigation but can also be utilized for various value-added products, such as food, feed, pharmaceuticals, and bioenergy,"he said in a written statement, Monday (10/3/2025).
Since 2020, the PRLSDA research team has developed and tested various models of microalgae-based CCUS photobioreactors. This technology has been scientifically proven to increase the efficiency of CO2 biosequestration by microalgae, such as Spirulina platensis, as well as optimize the photosynthesis process through the selection of superior microalgae strains, growth medium formulation, and control of irradiance, pH, and temperature factors.
This photobioreactor technology is expected to be an innovative solution for reducing carbon emissions and supporting environmental sustainability.
The signing of the Cooperation Agreement (PKS) between PRLSDA-BRIN and PT ASI was witnessed by several important figures, including Head of BRIN Laksana Tri Handoko, Head of ORKM BRIN Ocky Karna Radjasa, Ilham Habibie, Special Envoy of the President of the Republic of Indonesia for Climate and Energy Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Deputy Minister of Environment Diaz Hendropriyono, and Member of the BRIN Steering Committee Emil Salim.
In this collaboration, PT Alam Semesta Integra (ASI) will adopt CCUS photobioreactor technology to develop the Olympus product variant, which excels in CO2 absorption efficiency and increased biomass productivity.
This collaboration is expected to produce real solutions in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting a sustainable economy through a circular bio-economy.
Head of ORKM BRIN, Ocky Karna Radjasa, added that his organization is committed to ensuring that the results of this research do not stop in the laboratory but can be widely implemented in the industry and provide real benefits to the community.
In addition to developing photobioreactor technology, this collaboration also includes research and innovation in the field of renewable energy, especially in exploring the potential use of microalgae biomass as a sustainable energy source.
"With this cooperation, it is hoped that the microalgae-based CCUS photobioreactor technology can contribute significantly to supporting the national carbon emission reduction target and strengthening energy resilience based on biological resources,"he said.