> Electrolysis of brine produces as much chlorine as hydrogen
These are chemicals used elsewhere in industrial use (and, as you mentioned, in household bleach). So this just becomes the means for us to get those chemicals already being used.
Besides, you could do evaporative water purification first ("solar still", perhaps) to start with a more freshwater source? The brine would then be primarily solid.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
