Total and the Center for Sustainable Development at Qatar University recently initiated two research projects for the investigation of microalgae from Qatar to produce biofuels as well as Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS).
Both projects are sponsored by the Total R&D Group and will be implemented at Qatar University. The partnership is a very valuable addition to the research portfolio of Qatar University, as it supports the investigation into sustainable solutions to support the increasing global requirements for biofuels, lubricants and raw materials, whilst capturing carbon dioxide.
Research and Development is a cornerstone of Total’s strategy to continuously improve the way to address environmental challenges. According to Marie-Noelle Semeria, Senior VP and Group Chief Technology Officer at Total, they believe that CCUS will leverage innovative technologies which contribute to achieve carbon neutrality in the second half of the century. She said that algae projects fit within this objective, as algae are sustainable sources of biomass, which can be used for a multitude of applications, including biofuels production and CO2 sequestration using non-arable lands.
For Qatar University, these projects demonstrate the importance of industry collaborations for research. Professor Mariam Al Madeed, VP for Research at Qatar University said that through such industry funded projects and R&D collaborations, research is benchmarked against the requirements and standards from industry, ensuring that research is impactful, solution orientated, and truly collaborative.
Promoting Sustainability
The Algal Technologies Program is a research group dedicated to developing algal technologies in support of sustainable development in Qatar and Qatar National Vision 2030. Hareb Al Jabri, Acting Director of the centre and lead investigator of the project, said that algae are a fast-developing field and present a high potential for production in Qatar.
Using this valuable local resource to offset greenhouse gas emissions, whilst also supporting the local economy is key to achieving a more sustainable future for Qatar.’
Total’s relationship with Qatar University strives on the shared ambition to develop sustainable solutions and support national aspirations in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. These agreements are strategic for us, says Yousef Al Jaber, Director of Total Research Center in Qatar. Total’s collaboration with Qatar University bridges their vision to bring together world-class facilities and industry experts to promote sustainability.
For more information about the Algal Technologies Program, visit qu.edu.qa.
