But critics of human cloning and stem cell extraction methods essentially believe a human egg that begins to divide for any reason should be considered an embryo, and a potential person, that deserves protection under the law.

CNN: Democrat blocks Senate debate of cloning ban

Another restraint on producing large quantities of algae is that its cell walls are difficult to break, making extraction of the oil inside an energy intensive process.

BBC: Bath's Roman Baths algae could fuel cars