Biological conversion of CH4 and CO2 into methanol using methanotrophic bacteria:
The potential of methanotrophic bacteria to utilize the major greenhouse gases (methane and CO2) for growth and methanol production is being exploited to sequester these greenhouse gases. Furthermore, bioprocess optimization and process engineering strategies will be applied to enhance the utilization of gases and increase methanol titre and productivity. This concept can be strategically implemented in potential industries (oil and gas) of the energy sector for the sustainable sequestration of CO2 and methane being released as exhaust off-gases and flare gases, coupled with the production of methanol - a potential fuel and an industrial solvent of huge commercial significance.