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Environment


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February 12, 2013

Toxic sludge, polluted water can be byproducts of making solar panels

  • Scientists who conduct solar “life cycle analysis” say the transport of waste is not currently being factored into the carbon footprint score.
    • By JASON DEAREN
    Associated Press

    AP Photo/Reed Saxon [enlarge]
    Installers from California Green Design put solar electrical panels on the roof of a home. While solar is a far less polluting energy source than coal, many panel makers have a hazardous waste problem.

    SAN FRANCISCO — Homeowners on the hunt for sparkling solar panels are lured by ads filled with images of pristine landscapes and bright sunshine, and words about the technology's benefits for the environment — and the wallet.


     
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