Experience:

Algae Biofuels
Biofuels derived from algae have generated growing interest as a possible source of sustainable energy. Researchers hope to convert algae-based lipids and hydrocarbons into a variety of fuels at a more efficient rate per acre than conventional biofuel sources. However, a consensus has not yet been reached on the scope of impact algae-to-biofuel production may have on the environment. Decision makers need to better understand the effects of production processes, inputs, and outputs on the environment, especially land and water resources, if biofuels are to become a truly sustainable fuel source.

At the request of Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Terrapin examined the stages of algae-to-biofuel production—cultivation, harvesting, oil extraction, conversion, and product distribution—and identified the critical challenges to making algal biofuels a significant and sustainable source for our aviation and other transportation energy needs.

The October 2009 report, entitled “Cultivating Clean Energy: The Promise of Algae Biofuels”, has been identified in the U.S. EPA Renewable Fuel Standard Program’s Final Regulatory Impact Analysis (February 2010) as “a good resource for understanding the basic pathways for algae-based biofuels and summarizes some of the areas that can be improved to further commercialization of algae-based biofuels.” Detailed Terrapin Case Studies are available in the Workroom, our private extranet full of detailed information and resources to help you make an informed decision.

Courtesy of NRDC

Other Select Project Snapshots

Research

Corporate Strategy

Non-Profit

Affordable Housing

Commercial

Resort & Hospitality

High End Residential

Government

Communities & Mixed Use

Terrapin Human Resources

Terrapin is no longer accepting applications for the position of Researcher. Submitted applications are currently being reviewed. If you have been selected to interview, you will be notified in the next week by email. No phone calls, please.

Thank you for your interest in Terrapin!

Biophilic Design wins American Publishers Award

Bill Browning and Bob Fox are among the authors of a new book, Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science, and Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life edited by Yale professor Stephen Kellert and winner of the 2008 American Publishers Award for Professional and Scholarly Excellence in the Architecture and Urban Planning category.

Click here for more information.

Want More In-Depth Information?

The Workroom area of this site provides in-depth information not available to the general public. If you are interested in gaining access and learning more, just let us know.

Get access