Circular economy for glass upcycles solar panel waste into tableware

Ishizuka Glass Co., Ltd. has partnered with Kinjo Gakuin University in an industry-academia collaboration to launch the “solaGlass Project” in September 2024, aiming to upcycle solar panel glass. The company has successfully developed prototype products made entirely from recycled solar panel glass.

A team of ten third-year students from Kinjo Gakuin University’s Environmental Design Seminar has been actively involved in creating unique and high-value concepts. The name “solaGlass” combines “solar” and “glass,” symbolizing the meaningful reuse of solar panel glass. By working with recycling companies, this project demonstrates that recycled glass from different types of solar panels can be effectively processed and used to manufacture regenerated glass products.

With the increasing adoption of solar energy, concerns about waste solar panels are growing. According to Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, approximately 350,000 tons of waste solar panels are expected to be generated by 2035, with projections reaching 470,000 tons at their peak in 2042. In response to this pressing issue, Ishizuka Glass initiated a proof-of-concept study in December 2023 to explore the feasibility of repurposing solar panel glass for tableware production, aiming to mitigate waste and promote a circular economy.

Extensive evaluations of recycled solar panel glass have been conducted, focusing on its functionality, moldability, and potential applications. As a result, five conceptual designs have been developed and brought to life at Hokuyo Glass Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the Ishizuka Glass Group based in Aomori City. These prototypes showcase the viability of using recycled glass for commercial purposes. The project continues to evolve, furthering the practical application of recycled glass while raising awareness of its broader social and environmental significance.

The prototype products will be shared within the Aichi Circular Economy Promotion Project Team and presented at the Japan Society for Design Science’s 3rd Branch 2024 Annual Research Conference on February 22. This effort embodies the spirit of industry-academia-government collaboration, combining Kinjo Gakuin University’s innovative approach with the expertise of local recycling enterprises and advanced manufacturing technologies of Hokuyo Glass. By integrating young designers’ fresh perspectives, this initiative supports the regional circular economy and establishes a model for sustainable glass production.