How to tackle the looming challenge of solar PV panel recycling

The boom in installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels in recent decades has helped nations tackle their carbon emissions. But the technology has a useful lifespan of about 25–30 years, which means a rapidly growing number of PV panels will soon need to be disposed of (1). And while the environmental impact of their construction has received much attention, what happens at the end of their life cycle has garnered less scrutiny. At present, only about 10% of PV panels are recycled, with the majority being dumped, burned, or buried.

This trend is not sustainable and, if not addressed, will lead to increases in pollution, elevated risks to human health, and further shortages of the key materials needed to make the next generation of solar energy equipment. As we outline here, scientists, companies, and policymakers must set out mechanisms, regulations, and technical pathways to encourage more solar PV panel recycling and avoid this potential crisis.