# Solar panel waste could reach 402 million tonnes by 2060 2026-08-15T14:55:33+00:00 | Technology | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Global photovoltaic waste could reach between 297 million and 402 million tonnes by 2060, according to an international study published in Nature. Recycling the discarded panels could create nearly $1 trillion in economic value, while recovering materials such as silicon, silver and copper. The study examined 1,708 recycling scenarios across 32 regions, factoring in facilities, material prices, trade and subsidies. China and other middle-income countries are expected to generate much of the waste after 2040 as early solar installations retire. Panels can also contain lead and cadmium, creating environmental risks if they reach landfills. The researchers recommend region-specific recycling, international partnerships and phased subsidies, while warning that poorer regions could bear more waste but receive fewer financial gains. ## Coverage - timesofindia.indiatimes.com Tags: Adelaide University, Australia, China, nature, Sweden Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/solar-panel-waste-could-reach-402-million-tonnes-by-2060/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/solar-panel-waste-could-reach-402-million-tonnes-by-2060/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.