Solar panels have their own hazards – Newspaper

THIS is with reference to the report “‘Urban mining’ offers green solution to old solar panels” (Dec 24) which was about the concept of ‘urban mining’ specifically in relation to solar panels. The report presented an innovative solution on how to reuse the components reclaimed from solar panels to kill or at least reduce e-waste.

Pakistan has been importing a large quantity of solar panels since the last decade. With technical assistance from China, the first solar power plant in the country was inaugurated in 2015. It marked the beginning of a sustainable and green revolution in the country and a novel way to control the energy crises that had crippled the economic growth and severely affected the well- being of the population.

However, these panels, with a 20-25 year lifespan, eventually need immediate replacement. This is where Pakistan’s lack of a recycling policy becomes a critical issue. Considering their maximum lifespan, solar panels will start to retire in the country in the next few years.

Imagine the huge e-waste that we may have with solar panels of average size 5.5 feet by 3.5 feet, if not properly disposed of, dismantled or reused. The burden would be massive for a country already facing enormous environmental challenges.

In the absence of a dedicated policy framework for effectively handling the used solar panels, the situation would become so critical that we will see a flood of used solar panels on almost every corner, street and road, thus creating serious health problems for all age groups, including the children, since the solar panels contain hazardous materials, like lead and cadmium.

As such, If not disposed of properly, these panels can destroy the environment and cause soil and water contamination. Similarly, without a formal policy or guidelines on recycling solar panels, Pakistan will soon face the risk of improper disposal, which could lead to the loss of valuable materials that could be reclaimed from these used panels. These valuable materials, for example, include silicon, silver and copper.

Therefore, regulators and policymakers must develop a comprehensive policy framework that supports the principles of a circular economy, of which ‘urban mining’ is an integral component. Once in place, this policy should include clear guidelines for recycling solar panels and other technological waste, facilitate and promote the recycling industry, incentivise sustainable practices, and ensure compliance with local as well as international environmental standards.

Furthermore, collaboration between government, industry and environmental organisations is crucial in creating a sustainable, circular economy that benefits both the environment and the economy. Also, recycling solar panels will not only foster new industries but also create job opportunities, making a more sustainable and resilient economy. It could also position Pakistan as a leader in sustainable practices in the region.

Dr Aijaz A. Shaikh
Jyväskylä, Finland

Published in Dawn, January 10th, 2024