Lahore ( The COW News Digital) Pakistan’s growing shift toward solar energy is being hailed as a solution to the country’s energy crisis and soaring power costs — but environmental experts are warning that without urgent regulation, the rapid expansion could turn into a future waste management disaster.
Over the past fiscal year, Pakistan imported millions of solar panels and thousands of megawatts’ worth of storage batteries to meet surging demand. Rooftop installations have become common in cities, while large-scale solar parks are expanding across the country. Yet experts say extreme weather events — including floods and storms — combined with poor waste disposal infrastructure could transform this clean energy solution into a major environmental challenge.
Dr. Salman Tariq, an environmental scientist and assistant professor at Punjab University, warned that panels submerged in water can break down, damaging silicon cells and metal frames, while batteries pose fire and short-circuit risks. “Lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries release toxic chemicals into soil and groundwater when improperly disposed, potentially causing respiratory, kidney, and liver diseases,” he said.
The problem is compounded by Pakistan’s existing e-waste crisis. According to the Global E-Waste Monitor, the country generates nearly 400,000 tons of electronic waste every year — mostly from discarded phones, computers, and household appliances — much of which is dismantled in informal scrapyards using unsafe methods that harm workers and pollute the environment.
Experts like former geologist Dr. Naeem Mustafa recommend adopting urban mining — extracting valuable metals like copper, aluminum, and silicon from discarded devices and panels using safe, modern techniques. “If properly organized, this process can create jobs and reduce environmental harm,” he said.
Government officials admit that Pakistan currently lacks a comprehensive e-waste management policy, though the Punjab Environmental Protection Department says work is underway on a national strategy. New safety standards have been introduced for solar installations, but specialists say they are not enough.
Importers and environmental lawyers are calling for immediate action, including a solar waste recycling framework and tax incentives for investors to build recycling facilities. They also recommend introducing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules, forcing manufacturers and importers to manage the end-of-life phase of their products.
“Without timely intervention, Pakistan’s solar revolution risks losing its environmental benefits and becoming the next big waste crisis,” warned Dr. Tariq.