Microbes: A Source of Energy for 21st Century

This book underscores the potential of microorganisms in addressing the global energy crisis. Currently, the world is facing an energy crisis due to the depletion of fossil fuels, which are projected to be exhausted within the next 50 years. One potential alternative energy resource for the future is renewable energy, which includes biomass, from which a variety of biofuels can be obtained through the exploitation of microorganisms. This book is structured into 13 chapters, which have been designed to provide readers with both in-depth and broad perspectives on microorganisms for the sustainability of humanity. Additionally, it familiarizes readers with the diversity of energy-generating pathways among different groups of microorganisms and various types of biomass energy resources available on the planet, as well as the various possibilities for converting these resources into alternative energy sources with the aid of microbes. A significant effort has been made to offer readers comprehensive knowledge about different alternative fuels and value-added products from microbes for the 21st century. It is hoped that this book will be useful to students and professionals pursuing careers in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Environmental Sciences, and Energy Studies related to alternative biofuels to address the global energy crisis.