Lithium ion batteries are quintessential components of modern life. They are used to power smart devices — phones, tablets, laptops, and are rapidly becoming major elements in the automotive industry. Demand projections for lithium are skyrocketing with production struggling to keep up pace. This drive is due mostly to the rapid adoption of electric vehicles; sales of electric vehicles in 2020 are more than double what they were only a year prior. With such staggering growth it is important to understand how lithium is sourced and what that means for the environment. Will production even be capable of meeting the demand as more industries make use of this valuable element? How will the environmental impact of lithium affect growth? This thesis attempts to answer these questions as the world looks to a decade of rapid growth for lithium ion batteries.

This paper outlines the issue of end-of-life management in small scale solar systems deployed generally in Sub-Saharan Africa, known as PAYGos (Pay-as-you-go). Research and interviews were conducted in order to determine the current state of the industry and plans in terms of waste management. Considering the current capabilities and technology of PV recycling, the future of the industry was analyzed. It is important to provide the highest quality of service to the customer and minimize issues with environmental hazards. Therefore, it is recommended here that PAYGo companies create contracts with recycling companies before the issue of solar waste increases drastically.