Are solar panels easy to recycle?
Recycling solar panels remains a looming challenge to avoid creating another major source of waste. Solar panels are the most visible part of the photovoltaic systems that have become widespread on rooftops and in larger-scale installations in recent years. As current systems reach the end of their useful lives--up to 30 years--the industry is working to solve a series of recycling challenges.
Current recycling methods are expensive and require complex machinery. Most countries have yet to establish regulations governing solar-power systems, raising the prospect of an estimated 78 million metric tons of global solar panel waste by 2050. In comparison, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, in 2017 the U.S. recycled 67 million tons of household trash.
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