Biorefinery facilities are integrated production centers where energy, fuel, chemicals, and high value-added products are obtained from biomass through sustainable methods. In these facilities, renewable biological resources are utilized as an alternative to fossil fuel use, and efforts are made to minimize environmental impacts. In recent years, especially microalgae-based biorefinery systems have become a significant area of research and application in terms of biofuel production and the reduction of carbon emissions.
Türkiye has taken a pioneering step in this field by commissioning Europe’s first and only carbon-negative biorefinery facility. This facility, which operates with wind energy and is designed with a zero-waste objective, will be capable of processing approximately 1,200 tons of wet algae annually once it reaches full capacity.
Biorefinery Facility (Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Industry and Technology)
Microalgae-Based Biorefinery Approach
Microalgae (microalgal biomass) used in biofuel production are notable for their high photosynthetic efficiency and adaptability to environmental conditions. Microalgae grow by absorbing carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere and produce biomass. Due to these characteristics, they enable the implementation of carbon-negative processes. In addition to fuel, various high value-added products such as food additives, fertilizers, antioxidants, antibacterial compounds, and pharmaceutical raw materials can also be obtained from microalgae. Protein supplements and omega-3 fatty acids derived from species like Spirulina are developed for human nutrition, while algae-based feed and fertilizer products are designed for use in agriculture and animal husbandry.
Biorefinery Application and Innovation in Türkiye
Türkiye’s first carbon-negative biorefinery facility was developed by the Boğaziçi University Life Sciences and Technologies Application and Research Center. This pilot-scale facility established in Istanbul holds the distinction of being the first and only example in Europe to successfully produce jet fuel from microalgae. The establishment process was carried out within the framework of financial cooperation between the European Union and the Republic of Türkiye, coordinated by the Ministry of Industry and Technology, under the INDEPENDENT project (Integrated Biorefinery Concept for Bioeconomy-Oriented Development).
Approximately 6 million euros were allocated for the project budget, of which 85% was funded by the European Union and 15% by Türkiye. The establishment of the facility was conducted in collaboration between TÜBİTAK and Boğaziçi University, and the project’s target groups include SMEs operating in relevant sectors, R&D firms, and technology development zones. The project also aims to transfer the knowledge and technologies developed to the private sector.
Türkiye’s Biorefinery Facility Producing Jet Fuel from Algae (TÜBİTAK Bilim Genç)
The primary objective of the facility is to contribute to Türkiye’s national targets for reducing carbon emissions and to promote the development of sustainable technologies that will decrease dependence on fossil fuels. In this context, the microalgae-based jet fuel developed is of a quality suitable for use in international aviation and stands out as an environmentally friendly alternative.
Carbon-Negative Technologies and Sustainability Perspective
The carbon-negative biorefinery approach aims not only to reduce carbon emissions but also to capture existing carbon in the atmosphere. In this respect, it demonstrates a technological profile compatible with the European Green Deal and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Türkiye’s investment in this field is regarded as a strategic step toward developing environmentally conscious innovative solutions. Additionally, the facility’s energy demand is met entirely by wind power, exemplifying sustainable energy practices.
