August 13, 2008

Even though gas prices are down, $3.67 is still a lot of money. But what if you could fill your tank with pond scum?

UVA researchers are working on a process using algae to make fuel that can be burned in diesel engines, or refined into bio diesel.

The process could help cut back on other pollutants.

UVA Researcher Lisa Colosi says, "We're particularly interested in feeding the algae things that would otherwise be pollution. Like greenhouse gasses and sewage treatment water. And we're hoping that we can feed that to the algae so it will make even more fuel for us."

Virginia is a good place to grow algae as well. There is plenty of water, and plenty of sunshine.