The recent environmental problems that are associated with air pollution evoke a special research emphasis on the search for sources of energy that replace fossil fuels, one of the biggest pollution generators. For several years, biodiesel has become an alternative for this problem. This biofuel can be produced from different raw materials that minimize the generation of pollutants, however, the use of vegetable oils or animal fats as raw material bring on problems associated with deforestation in relation to monoculture and the promotion of stockbreeding activities.
Under this scenario, the production of biodiesel based on microalgae as a source of lipids has been projected as a sustainable alternative for the biofuel industry. This review presents the production of lipids from microalgae, and poses new challenges within the energy industry, since microalgae are postulated as a renewable biodiesel source that is able to meet the global demand for transport fuels, without putting at risk social or environmental aspects. In addition to being the raw material for biodiesel, microalgae provide an alternative in the decontamination of the environment, especially the air and water. Its production is economically viable, equitable within society, and environmentally bearable; in a word, it is sustainable.
