Now Reading: Solar panel waste could reach 402 million tonnes by 2060
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Solar panel waste could reach 402 million tonnes by 2060
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…
The Story in Brief
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.
The Indian Opinion
The lazy narrative is that solar power produces clean energy and therefore has no waste problem. The opposite exaggeration is that panel waste will cancel out its climate benefits. The study supports neither claim. Recycling can recover valuable materials and reduce emissions, but facilities, rules and fair investment must arrive before panels retire in large numbers. The practical test is whether countries build capacity before the 25 to 30-year panel lifespan runs out.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
