What are microalgae and how do they differ from other types of algae?

Microalgae are microscopic, photosynthetic organisms that can be found in various environments, including water, deserts, and glaciers. Unlike larger algae, such as seaweed, microalgae are single-celled and play a crucial role in oxygen production and carbon dioxide absorption.

Why are microalgae considered a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources?

Microalgae can produce high-quality vegan protein that is more sustainable than animal protein. They require less land and water to cultivate, and their growth process emits oxygen while absorbing carbon dioxide, making them an environmentally friendly option.

How does NeoEarth aim to improve the productivity of microalgae?

NeoEarth focuses on enhancing the genetic traits of microalgae through natural selection rather than genetic modification. By selecting the most productive strains and optimizing their growth conditions, the company aims to increase the overall yield and efficiency of microalgae production.

What are some commercial applications of microalgae beyond food and nutrition?

Microalgae have diverse applications, including natural colorants for food products, antioxidants for cosmetics, and potential substitutes for petrochemical products in various industries. Their versatility makes them valuable in sectors ranging from health to environmental sustainability.

What is the projected growth of the global microalgae market, and why is it significant?

The global microalgae market is projected to reach $24.4 billion by 2030, indicating a growing recognition of their potential benefits. This growth is significant as it reflects an increasing demand for sustainable alternatives in food, health, and industrial applications, aligning with global environmental goals.

Why look to the oceans for solutions to problems on land?

Environment

Charles-Antoine Boels

Co-founder — NeoEarth

Why look to the oceans for solutions to problems on land?

10:38·29 March 2026

Because it is in the ocean that we find most microalgae, and microalgae offer a huge range of solutions to an equally vast range of issues.

High quality vegan protein for people or animals? Microalgae. Safe and sustainable alternatives to petrochemical additives? Microalgae. And the list goes on. The potential is vast, and the means of production are not yet up to speed – a perfect storm for the powerful pairing of a businessman looking for entrepreneurial adventure and a biologist determined to apply science to pressing environmental issues. And so it was that Charles-Antoine Boels and Saïd Ihammouine founded NeoEarth. The global microalgae market is projected to reach $24.4 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of +8%. Listen to Charles-Antoine explain the tremendous potential both of microalgae themselves, and of the company he co-founded to optimise their development and industrialisation.

Frequently asked questions

Microalgae are microscopic, photosynthetic organisms that can be found in various environments, including water, deserts, and glaciers. Unlike larger algae, such as seaweed, microalgae are single-celled and play a crucial role in oxygen production and carbon dioxide absorption.