How can the issue of low atom economy be addressed?

Addressing the issue of low atom economy can effectively be achieved by finding a use for waste products or generating useful by-products. Atom economy refers to the efficiency of a reaction in converting reactants into useful products, with higher atom economy indicating that a greater proportion of reactants becomes part of the desired product rather than forming waste.

When a chemical process produces by-products that are useful or can be repurposed, it adds value and reduces the overall waste generated by the reaction. This not only improves the sustainability and economic viability of the chemical process but also can lead to more environmentally friendly practices. By ensuring that as many reactants as possible contribute to economically viable products, the atom economy increases, thereby making the process more efficient and effective.

For instance, in industrial processes where by-products can be utilized in other reactions or sold as separate chemical products, this maximizes the resource use and minimizes environmental impact. This proactive approach to waste management aligns with principles of green chemistry, which advocates for reducing waste and improving overall reaction efficiency.