Consumer Attitudes towards Microalgae Production and Microalgae-Based Agricultural Products: The Cases of Almería (Spain) and Livorno (Italy)

Abstract

The production of microalgal biomass and products derived thereof for a wide variety of applications is a hot research topic, with the number of facilities being built and products and biologically active molecules launched into the market increasing every year. The aim of the current study was to identify the attitudes of citizens in Almería (Spain) and Livorno (Italy) towards the construction of a microalgae production plant and a biorefinery in their cities and also their opinions about the microalgae-based products that could be produced. Overall, in Almería (Spain), a NIMBY (not in my back yard) attitude towards the construction of a microalgal production facility and especially towards a microalgal biorefinery was observed, despite the strong microalgal industry in the region and the higher knowledge of citizens about microalgae. In both locations, but especially in Livorno (Italy), microalgae-based biostimulants, biofertilisers, and aquafeeds were well accepted. Proximity was the main factor affecting the acceptance of a microalgae producing facility. Consumer knowledge about microalgal biotechnology and the health and environmental benefits of this valuable raw material are scarce, and opinions are based on drivers other than knowledge. After gaining more knowledge about microalgal biorefineries, most of the responses in Almería (47%) and Livorno (61%) were more positive.

Biostimulant Capacity of Chlorella and Chlamydopodium Species Produced Using Wastewater and Centrate

“…These results are consistent with previous reports indicating a negative correlation between watercress seed germination and the concentration of Scenedesmus sp. extracts [ 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 , 31 , 32 , 33 ]. In addition, a previous work revealed that bioactive molecules, such as abscisic acid (ABA), could produce shoot growth suppression (by themselves) and form an inhibitory complex along with other biomolecules, such as lunularic acids [ 34 ].…”

“…Their compositions include various hormones such as auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins, which, despite being present in small quantities, provide the algal extracts with marked effects that translate into various agronomic benefits [ 8 ]. Microalgae production and microalgae-derived products offer many advantages, such as reduced environmental impact and widespread consumer acceptance [ 9 , 10 ]. Moreover, these microorganisms can be produced on nonarable land and using different types of water and nutrient sources, including agricultural waste and urban wastewater.…”

Microalgae Proteins as Sustainable Ingredients in Novel Foods: Recent Developments and Challenges

“…The color and typical “marine” taste of microalgae are not generally appreciated by many consumers. Several studies are finding strategies to mask the undesirable flavors either by incorporating microalgae in food formulations, by adding spices [ 149 ], or by modifying the aromatic profile through fermentation [ 150 ]. However, the sensory issue is far from being mitigated.…”

A Comprehensive Review of Microalgae and Cyanobacteria-Based Biostimulants for Agriculture Uses

“…Recently, a survey about consumer attitude toward microalgae-based agricultural products highlighted that farmers in the region of Almeria (Spain) and Livorno (Italy) were not in favor of building microalgal production facilities in their properties; however, the use of microalgae-based agricultural products such as biostimulants, biofertilizers and aquafeed in both locations was acceptable, especially in Livorno (Italy). Authors also highlighted the influence of farmers knowledge about microalgal biotechnologies and their benefits, whereas acceptance was fairly more positive when farmers gained more information [ 126 ].…”