The Department of Environment and Science (DES) is seeking feedback on a pilot proposal to recycle items like solar panels and repair other e-products instead of sending them to landfill.
To mark Clean Up Australia Day the Department has unveiled a draft e-Products plan, targeting electronic waste in Queensland, including solar panels and batteries.
As part of the draft plan, solar panels could be banned from being dumped in landfills within 10 years.
In a backgrounder to the plan, the Department said that in 2019, solar panel waste accounted for nearly 1,000 tonnes, but by 2030 it could account for some 17,000 tonnes.
“The pilot proposal will involve two stages, with the first stage identifying participants and locations to divert end-of-life solar panels from landfill and recovering their useful materials,” the Department said.
“Circular economy specialist, The Activ Group will also develop a tracking and information system to log volumes and locations of recovered materials as part of the pilot.”
It said stage two would see on-ground collection, recovery and recycling of panels, focusing on rooftop installations.
Acting Chief Executive of the Smart Energy Council, Wayne Smith said the trial would examine the best ways to address any economic and logistical obstacles preventing the effective collection and disposal of unwanted household solar panels, with an initial focus on regional areas.
“The Smart Energy Council will establish a Solar Stewardship Scheme Consultative Committee, including solar PV manufacturers, distributors, retailers, installers and certificate traders,” Mr Smith said.
“The committee will meet monthly during the trial period to share advice, data and learnings to help inform a possible future Solar Stewardship Scheme.”
Consultation closes on 17 April with feedback comments now being accepted on the DES website at this PS News link.
