Later Through Chemistry was dropped, since it was thought to be offensive for certain environmental groups, although the better living through chemistry continues. For example, water-based paints were developed that substantially eliminated the need to evaporate solvents. Then aluminum siding substantially eliminated the need to paint wood every 3-5 years. Vinyl lasts even longer. It all can be cleaned easily with a little surfactant spray.
Many chemical reactions are difficult to do, especially the more selective ones.
Much research is needed to get better at doing chemical reactions. Once this is achieved the chemistry can become even more useful in making life even less cumbersome. They would like to break certain specific chemical bonds with a pulse of electro-magnetic energy, especially those previously considered to be inert . Of course, ideally chemical reactions would not need solvents. Some could be accomplished on a nano-scale.