For all the hope and hype surrounding algae-based biofuels, producers like Solazyme are finding perhaps more success in selling their low-carbon oil for use in cosmetics, lubricants and food.
But the whaling industry began its long decline more than 150 years ago, as demand for its products which ranged from candles to lamp oil, corset whalebone, cosmetics and engine lubricants evaporated with the appearance of petrochemicals, steel and plastics.