M

Member

Speaking in the House of Lords on 1 September 2025

Debate

Planning and Infrastructure Bill

Contribution

We should not forget that green open spaces absorb carbon through photosynthesis. By storing carbon, green spaces reduce the overall concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere, producing cooling effects that help to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Green open spaces act as carbon sinks, improving air quality. The panels themselves contain hazardous materials such as cadmium and lead, raising concerns about leaks. They are usually guaranteed for only about 25 years, and the replacements will again cause excessive intrusion into rural areas. There are concerns since recycling infrastructure for solar panels is still developing. There are also worries about future waste problems as the solar panels reach the end of their lives.

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