The efficiency of photochemical degradation of pollutants in the environment can be increased using photocatalysts through the following strategies:1. Selection of appropriate photocatalysts: Choosing photocatalysts with suitable bandgap energies, high surface area, and high photocatalytic activity is crucial. Some common photocatalysts include titanium dioxide TiO2 , zinc oxide ZnO , and cadmium sulfide CdS . The choice of photocatalyst depends on the specific pollutant and environmental conditions.2. Modification of photocatalysts: The photocatalytic activity of materials can be improved by doping with other elements, such as non-metals e.g., nitrogen, sulfur or metals e.g., silver, platinum . Doping can enhance the light absorption capacity, reduce the recombination rate of electron-hole pairs, and improve the overall photocatalytic efficiency.3. Coupling of photocatalysts: Combining two or more photocatalysts with complementary properties can enhance the photocatalytic efficiency. For example, coupling a wide bandgap photocatalyst e.g., TiO2 with a narrow bandgap photocatalyst e.g., CdS can improve the light absorption range and reduce the recombination rate of electron-hole pairs.4. Use of co-catalysts: Adding co-catalysts, such as noble metals e.g., platinum, gold or metal oxides e.g., iron oxide, cobalt oxide , can improve the separation of electron-hole pairs and enhance the photocatalytic efficiency.5. Optimization of reaction conditions: Factors such as pH, temperature, and pollutant concentration can significantly affect the photocatalytic degradation process. Optimizing these parameters can enhance the photocatalytic efficiency.6. Utilization of solar light: Since solar light is abundant and free, using photocatalysts that can efficiently utilize solar light for pollutant degradation is an effective way to increase the efficiency of photochemical degradation.7. Design of photocatalytic reactors: The design of photocatalytic reactors, such as immobilized photocatalyst systems or slurry reactors, can significantly influence the efficiency of the photocatalytic process. Proper reactor design can ensure optimal contact between the photocatalyst, pollutant, and light source, leading to enhanced degradation efficiency.8. Recycling and reusability of photocatalysts: Developing photocatalysts that can be easily recovered and reused can reduce the overall cost of the photocatalytic process and increase its efficiency in the long term.By implementing these strategies, the efficiency of photochemical degradation of pollutants in the environment can be significantly increased using photocatalysts.