IMPACT OF SOLAR PANEL WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN ABUJA - NIGERIA

Abstract

The increasing adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Abuja, Nigeria, is driven by the need for sustainable and reliable energy alternatives to fossil fuels. While solar energy is widely regarded as environmentally friendly, concerns are emerging regarding the management of end-of-life solar panels and their potential environmental impacts. This study examined the impact of solar panel waste management on environmental sustainability in Abuja, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 351 respondents drawn from solar installers, users, environmental officers, and waste management personnel. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential analysis. Findings revealed that solar panel waste management practices in Abuja are largely informal, with limited structured collection, recycling, and disposal systems. The study also established a significant relationship between solar panel waste management practices and environmental sustainability, indicating that poor waste handling contributes to environmental degradation, while effective management enhances resource conservation and pollution control. Key challenges identified include inadequate recycling infrastructure, weak regulatory enforcement, low public awareness, and high recycling costs. The study concludes that although solar energy contributes positively to environmental sustainability, its benefits are undermined by ineffective waste management systems. It recommends the establishment of dedicated solar waste recycling facilities, stronger regulatory enforcement, increased public awareness, and the adoption of extended producer responsibility frameworks to promote sustainable solar energy development in Abuja.