Solar Panel Use May Be Causing Unexpected Harm.
May 27, 2025 By Lorand Pottino, B.Sc. Weather Policy
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Lorand is a weather policy expert specializing in climate resilience and sustainable adaptation. He develops data-driven strategies to mitigate extreme weather risks and support long-term environmental stability.
Solar Panel Waste Is Surging Worldwide
In just a few short years, the amount of discarded solar panels has skyrocketed. According to recent reports, global solar panel waste nearly quadrupled between 2020 and 2024, leaping from roughly 220,000 tonnes to about 900,000 tonnes per year. This dramatic surge isn’t just a number on a spreadsheet—it’s a mounting environmental challenge. The speed of this increase has caught many governments and companies off guard, leaving them scrambling for solutions. Some experts warn that this trend could outpace our ability to manage the waste safely. “We’re seeing the tip of the iceberg,” one recycling industry insider stated. The sheer volume now threatens to overwhelm existing disposal and recycling infrastructures, making solar waste a pressing issue for communities everywhere.
Low Recycling Rates Raise Red Flags
Even as solar energy becomes more popular, the recycling of old panels remains alarmingly low. In both the United States and the European Union, only about 10% of discarded solar panels are being recycled. Most of the rest find their way to landfills, where they can remain for decades. This shortfall is fueling serious concerns among environmentalists and policymakers alike. Some states have set recycling targets, but progress has been slow and uneven. As solar installations age and reach the end of their lifespan, the gap between waste generated and panels recycled is only widening. The lack of effective recycling options is a glaring weak spot in the push for cleaner energy.
Toxic Materials Lurk Inside Solar Panels
Beneath the sleek glass surfaces, solar panels contain hazardous substances like lead, cadmium, and other heavy metals. If these panels aren’t disposed of properly, these toxins can leach out and contaminate soil and groundwater. Environmental scientists warn that improper handling or landfill disposal can turn solar panels from green technology into a real pollution problem. “We’re trading one environmental risk for another if we don’t handle old panels carefully,” said a materials chemist during a recent interview. The potential for toxic exposure has prompted calls for stricter oversight and better technology to recover and neutralize these substances. Communities near landfill sites are especially worried about long-term health risks.
https://climatecompass247.com/climate/solar-panel-use-may-be-causing-unexpected-harm/
