It is possible to produce algae based biofuels, but what is/are the likely limitation(s) of developing countries in promoting this industry?

1. Production of algae based biofuels is possible in seas only and not on continents.

2. Setting up and engineering the algae based biofuels production requires high level of expertise/ technology until the construction is complete.

3. Economically viable production necessitates the setting up of large scale facilities which may raise ecological and social concerns.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

The correct answer is 2 and 3 only.

Let us analyze each statement step-by-step to understand the limitations of promoting the algae-based biofuel industry in developing countries:

1. Statement 1: "Production of algae based biofuels is possible in seas only and not on continents."
This statement is incorrect. Algae can be cultivated in a variety of environments, including open ponds, closed photobioreactors, freshwater bodies, wastewater facilities, and on non-arable land on continents, as well as in marine environments (seas and oceans). It is not restricted exclusively to seas.

2. Statement 2: "Setting up and engineering the algae based biofuels production requires high level of expertise/ technology until the construction is complete."
This statement is correct. The technological infrastructure needed for large-scale algae cultivation, photobioreactor design, strain selection, harvesting, and extraction processes requires advanced engineering expertise and high technology. This acts as a significant entry barrier and limitation for many developing countries.

3. Statement 3: "Economically viable production necessitates the setting up of large scale facilities which may raise ecological and social concerns."
This statement is correct. To achieve economies of scale and make algal biofuels commercially competitive with fossil fuels, massive land/water footprint facilities are required. Developing large-scale facilities can lead to ecological concerns (such as biodiversity loss, water depletion, or invasive algae spills) and social concerns (such as land acquisition disputes and resource competition).

Therefore, statements 2 and 3 accurately represent the limitations, making 2 and 3 only the correct choice.