EPA Eyes 2025 ‘Universal Waste’ Proposal For Solar Panels, Li-Ion Batteries

EPA plans to propose a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) rule that will formally categorize solar panels and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries as “universal waste” by summer 2025, building on the agency’s recent guidance calling for battery waste in particular to be handled under the streamlined waste-rule program. Jessica Young, branch chief at EPA’s Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery, said during an Oct. 26 presentation at the Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials’ (ASTSWMO) annual meeting...