Photobiocatalysis: More than just an interesting lab curiosity?

Abstract

Photobiocatalysis is currently in vogue. The number of reports combining the disciplines of biocatalysis and photocatalysis is rapidly increasing. While the synthetic possibilities enabled by photobiocatalysis are fascinating, the economic feasibility and environmental impact are largely neglected in the current literature. In this contribution, we present a range of key indicators for economic feasibility and environmental impact that may be useful for readers to assess their own work and thereby avoid unrealistic exaggerations. We also critically review the current state of the art in photobiocatalysis and question its synthetic practicability beyond the laboratory. With this contribution, we aim to provoke an open discussion.