The use of micro-algae is being considered in New Caledonia to counter emissions from the mining sector.
A two-million US dollars research project, called Amical, has been launched to explore the use of these micro organisms in the territory's lagoons.
Nicola Morezzi of the economic development agency in New Caledonia is in charge of the programme.
He says mining companies seem interested as part of efforts to reduce gas emissions from their fumes.
"We start with Xstrata that is interested by the project because they want to recycle their gas emissions from their fumes. Micro-algae need carbon dioxide to grow. Using mining industry fumes could be a good solution to reduce investment to recycle carbon dioxide and to produce cheaper biomass."
The micro-algae could also be used in health research, for cosmetics or animal feed
The first production trials of micro-algae are planned for the end of next year.
