LA SALLE ACADEMY
ILIGAN CITY
S.Y.2024-2025
Investigatory Project on
Algae as a Natural CO₂ Absorber: A Sustainable
Solution for Carbon Sequestration
Submitted by:
Abedin, Muqtadir
Abdullah, Alexander
Daluma, Al-jashiem
Morandarte, Cid
Submitted to:
Miss May J. Liwanag
LA SALLE ACADEMY
ILIGAN CITY
S.Y.2024-2025
Investigatory Project on
Algae as a Natural CO₂ Absorber: A Sustainable
Solution for Carbon Sequestration
Submitted by:
Abedin, Muqtadir
Abdullah, Alexander
Daluma, Al-jashiem
Morandarte, Cid
Submitted to:
Miss May J. Liwanag
Abstract
Chapter I
INTRODUCTION
A. Background of the Study
Climate change is a major global issue that threatens ecosystems, economies, and human
well-being. One of the primary causes of climate change is the excessive emission of
carbon dioxide (CO₂), a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, leading
to rising temperatures. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial activities
have significantly increased CO₂ levels over the past century. As a result, extreme
weather conditions such as hurricanes, droughts, and heat waves have become more
frequent, posing risks to food security, water supply, and biodiversity.
To combat climate change, scientists and environmentalists have been exploring various
strategies to reduce CO₂ levels in the atmosphere. One promising natural solution is the
use of algae. Algae are simple aquatic organisms that perform photosynthesis, a process
in which they absorb CO₂ from their surroundings and release oxygen. Studies have
shown that certain algae species can absorb large amounts of CO₂, making them a
potential tool for carbon sequestration (the process of capturing and storing atmospheric
carbon dioxide). Unlike trees, which take years to grow, algae multiply rapidly and can
absorb CO₂ at a faster rate.
This study focuses on investigating the effectiveness of locally sourced algae in
absorbing CO₂. By exposing algae to increased levels of CO₂ and observing their growth,
this research aims to determine whether algae could be a viable, eco-friendly solution to
reducing greenhouse gases. The results of this study could contribute to the development
of natural carbon capture methods, supporting efforts to mitigate climate change.
This research is inspired by various studies on algae’s role in reducing CO₂ emissions.
Previous research has demonstrated that algae can be used in carbon capture systems near
power plants, and even in space missions, to produce oxygen and absorb excess CO₂. By
conducting a simple experiment, this study seeks to confirm these findings on a small
scale, while also exploring the potential of algae-based solutions in local communities.
B. Statement of Problem
1. How effective are algae in absorbing CO₂ from the atmosphere?
2. How does increased CO₂ exposure affect algae growth?
C. Hypothesis
● Algae exposed to CO₂ will show increased growth, indicating carbon absorption.
D. Significance of the study
This study is significant because it explores a natural and sustainable way to combat
climate change. If proven effective, algae cultivation could be a low-cost solution for
carbon sequestration in polluted areas. This research benefits:
Students and Researchers – Encourages further studies on algae's role in climate
solutions.
E. Scope and limitations
This study focuses on testing the ability of algae to absorb CO₂ over a short period (1–2
days).
The study only measures algae growth as an indicator of CO₂ absorption and does not
quantify exact CO₂ levels.
F. Definition of Terms
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) – A greenhouse gas contributing to global warming.
Algae – Simple aquatic plants that photosynthesize and absorb CO₂.
Photosynthesis – The process where plants and algae use sunlight to convert CO₂ into
oxygen and glucose.
Chapter II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Algae have gained significant attention as a natural solution for carbon sequestration due
to their ability to absorb CO₂ through photosynthesis. Various studies have explored how
algae can be used to mitigate climate change by capturing and storing atmospheric
carbon.
Razzak et al. (2013) reviewed advancements in industrial CO₂ capture using algae and
highlighted that microalgae can efficiently absorb carbon dioxide, converting it into
biomass that can be used for biofuels and other sustainable products. This study
emphasizes that algae-based systems could serve as an alternative method for reducing
carbon emissions in industrial sectors.
Similarly, Dineshkumar et al. (2021) examined the physiological mechanisms of CO₂
sequestration in microalgae and found that environmental factors such as pH, light
intensity, and nutrient availability significantly influence carbon absorption. Their
research suggests that optimizing these conditions can improve algae's efficiency in
carbon capture.
Xu et al. (2022) investigated the impact of increasing CO₂ levels on algae growth and
competition. Their study demonstrated that algal species with higher carbon absorption
rates tend to dominate in high-CO₂ environments, making them more effective for
long-term carbon sequestration projects.
The University of Kentucky Research Center (2022) provided an overview of how
algae-based carbon capture works, explaining that algae can be integrated into industrial
settings to absorb CO₂ emissions from power plants. This method has been tested in pilot
projects to determine its feasibility as a large-scale climate solution.
These studies collectively support the hypothesis that algae can serve as a natural and
efficient solution for reducing CO₂ emissions. By leveraging algae’s rapid growth and
high absorption rates, scientists and policymakers can develop innovative strategies to
combat climate change.
Studies show that algae effectively absorb CO₂ and can help reduce carbon emissions,
especially in industrial settings. Factors like environmental conditions and nutrient
availability influence their efficiency.
This study bridges that gap by combining algae-based CO₂ absorption with a smart
waste-collecting robot, offering an innovative solution for urban waste management. It
aims to demonstrate how biology and technology can work together to combat climate
change.
Chapter III
METHODOLOGY
Materials
● Clear plastic bottles (2–3)
● Algae (from ponds, aquariums, or stores)
● Water
● Measuring tape (to observe algae growth)
● Straw
Procedure:
1. Prepare algae samples – Collect algae and place equal amounts in separate plastic
bottles filled with water.
2. Create experimental conditions:
Bottle A (Control): No additional CO₂.
2. Create experimental conditions:
Bottle A (Control): No additional CO₂.
Bottle B (Experiment): Blow CO₂ into the bottle using a straw for 10–20 seconds and
seal.
3. Place both bottles in sunlight to encourage photosynthesis
4. Observe and record algae growth (color change, density) for 24–48 hours.
Variables
Independent Variable: CO₂ exposure.
Dependent Variable: Algae growth.
Controlled Variables: Amount of water, sunlight exposure, and algae concentration.
Chapter IV
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND
INTERPRETATION of DATA
Results and Discussion
