CPCB Unveils India’s First Guidelines for Safe Disposal

Improper disposal of solar panels poses significant environmental and health hazards due to heavy metals, including lead, cadmium, arsenic, antimony, selenium, copper, silver, gallium, tellurium and tin contained within the modules. Unscientific disposal methods can contaminate soil and water bodies, while uncontrolled burning releases toxic fumes that pollute air quality.

The guidelines emphasised that unauthorised dumping in open areas or selling to unregistered entities risks releasing these toxic chemicals into the environment, potentially causing adverse health impacts for communities and workers handling the waste without proper protective measures.

Producers must establish and publicise comprehensive collection systems, providing consumers with website links containing information, helpline contact numbers for queries and support, details of collection points or pickup services and information about authorised recycling facilities.

Manufacturers are encouraged to maintain consumer databases to facilitate collection when panels reach end-of-life.

Transportation must be conducted using covered trucks, preferably those authorised to transport hazardous wastes. When solar waste is destined for final disposal, handlers must comply with provisions under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.

The guidelines mandate specific storage requirements to preserve panels for potential reuse or recycling, while protecting worker safety and environmental integrity. Storage facilities must be covered, dry and well-ventilated to prevent moisture build-up and protect panels from elements.

Critical infrastructure requirements include impervious, non-leachable flooring to prevent groundwater and soil contamination from heavy metal leaching. Panels must be stacked in maximum 20 layers or 2 metres height, whichever is less, to prevent structural damage from crushing weight.

Storage areas require comprehensive safety systems, including fire protection arrangements, adequate firefighting equipment, clear emergency exit routes and well-defined Emergency Response Plans. All storage racks and containers must be clearly labelled with waste type for easy identification during recycling processes.

The guidelines specify minimum space requirements of 19.5 cubic metres per tonne of stored solar waste, ensuring safe and accessible handling. Regular inventory management and periodic inspections are mandatory to maintain accurate records and check for damage.

[ad_1]

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.}

[ad_2]