The Coming Industry of Controlled Photosynthesis

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Abstract
In controlled photosynthesis green algae, Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Scenedesmus obliquus are produced at costs equivalent to those of presently available plant proteins. Experimentally determined yields of algae approach 30 tons of photo-synthate containing 12 tons of protein per acre-year. By-products of the process are complete waste disposal, protection of water resources and water reclamation. In other applications of the process culture of algae in wastes mixed with sea water could reduce by 1/3 the fresh water now needed to produce protein. Use of the process to convert animal wastes into animal feed would increase the quantity and availability of high quality animal proteins, and reduce the quantity of animal wastes. Through methane fermentation by algae grown on wastes and the residues of digestion, electrical power could be produced for from 10 to 20 mills per kwh. By virtue of its safety, simplicity and lack of need for complex machinery, controlled photosynthesis is subject to implementation by most of the world''s population. Its widespread adoption could bring developing countries to a new level of prosperity and human dignity.

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