KazNU's Biotech Solutions for Clean Energy: Contribution to SDG 7

The energy of the future is born today

Farabi Kazakh National University is actively working to develop innovative solutions in the field of renewable energy. Our scientific research directly contributes to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 7—ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy.

Next-generation biofuels

Project AP19677705 "Creation of environmentally and economically viable biofossil fuel based on the efficient co-combustion of coal residues and microalgae biomass" under the direction of N.Sh. Akimbekov represents a breakthrough technology in the field of alternative energy.

The project's uniqueness lies in the synergistic effect of combining coal residues and microalgae biomass. Microalgae have the unique ability to rapidly accumulate biomass using solar energy and atmospheric CO2. Combining them with coal residues allows for the creation of a fuel with improved environmental characteristics and a competitive price.

This innovation paves the way for energy supply to remote communities in Kazakhstan, reducing dependence on traditional fossil fuels and reducing the energy sector's carbon footprint.

Biochar : A Double Benefit for Energy and the Environment

Project AP14973042 "Development of a technology for creating biochar from biomass of bioenergy plants" under the supervision of PhD , senior lecturer A.A. Mamirova, demonstrates an integrated approach to energy challenges.

The biochar produced by this project not only serves as a renewable energy source but also as an effective means of improving soil quality, sequestering carbon, and increasing crop yields. The technology enables the recycling of plant residues, previously considered waste, turning them into a valuable energy resource. This is a striking example of the circular economy in action.

Biotechnology to improve oil production efficiency

The Faculty is implementing three interrelated projects aimed at developing biological solutions to improve the efficiency of oil production:

Project AP14871512, "Microbial Multifunctional Exopolysaccharides : Biochemical Characteristics, Production Methods, and Application Prospects in the Oil Industry," led by T.D. Mukasheva, is developing multifunctional biopolymers produced by microorganisms that significantly increase oil recovery without the use of toxic chemicals.

Project AP26104459 "Creation of a biosurfactant- and biopolymer-producing association of microorganisms to enhance oil recovery " (2025-2027) under the supervision of Associate Professor G.K. Kaiyrmanova continues the development of biotechnological methods for creating an association of microorganisms that produce biologically active substances to increase oil recovery from fields.

Research AP19577160, "Study of microorganisms producing biosurfactants and their applicability for enhanced oil recovery ," led by A.K. Ernazarova, examines the microbiological basis for increasing the energy efficiency of hydrocarbon production.

These biotechnological approaches allow for more complete use of existing energy resources, reducing the need for new development and mitigating environmental damage from extractive industries.

An integrated approach to energy solutions

at KazNU's research in the field of clean energy is characterized by a systematic approach. We are simultaneously working on:

• Creation of alternative energy sources from renewable raw materials
• Increasing the efficiency of using existing energy resources
• Reducing the environmental impact of the energy sector
• Ensuring energy accessibility for remote regions

Prospects and social significance

The projects being implemented have direct practical application for the Kazakh economy. Biofuel (AP19677705) and biochar (AP14973042) technologies are particularly relevant for rural areas where access to centralized power grids is limited. Biotechnological methods for enhanced oil recovery (AP14871512, AP26104459, AP19577160) can significantly increase the economic efficiency of the country's existing oil fields.

Science at the Service of Energy Transformation

The Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology at Al- Farabi KazNU makes a significant contribution to achieving SDG 7 by developing science-based, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy solutions. Our research paves the way for Kazakhstan's energy independence based on renewable energy sources and biotechnological innovations, ensuring a sustainable energy future for generations to come.

Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology of al-Farabi Kazakh National University