What can be inferred if a reaction's atom economy is low and has high waste?

When a reaction has a low atom economy, it indicates that a significant portion of the reactants is converted into by-products or waste rather than the desired product. This inefficiency means that resources are not being utilized effectively, leading to a large amount of unneeded material. Such a process can be deemed unsustainable because it contributes to environmental problems, such as pollution and resource depletion, making it less favorable both economically and environmentally.

High waste implies that not only are valuable resources being wasted, but also that additional costs may arise from managing or disposing of this waste. Sustainable chemistry aims to minimize waste and maximize the use of reactants to provide a more eco-friendly and efficient process. Therefore, if a reaction is characterized by low atom economy and high waste, it is clear that it represents an unsustainable practice.