The commercialization of high-performance lead-based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is critically hindered by the environmental and health risks associated with potential lead (Pb) leakage from damaged modules. To address this fundamental challenge, this review provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent and rapidly evolving strategies for effective Pb sequestration and lifecycle management. We categorize and analyze the primary research pathways into six interconnected approaches: (1) Polymer-based Encapsulation, which utilizes functional polymers (e.g., PDMS-MMP, PVB, in situ networks) to create barriers that physically block and chemically chelate Pb2+ ions, achieving >99% sequestration efficiency while often enhancing device stability; (2) MOF/COF Integration, where engineered metal–organic and covalent organic frameworks (e.g., NH2-UiO-66, Tp-Azo-COF) are embedded as multifunctional components that passivate defects, improve performance, and immobilize Pb2+ through strong coordination chemistry; (3) Supramolecular Strategies, employing designed host–guest molecules (e.g., crown ethers, cryptands, cyclodextrins) to form internal ″Pb cages″ that suppress ion migration and enable high-efficiency devices with minimal leakage; (4) Metal Complexes/Salts (5) Bioinspired and (6) Hot Water & Aqueous Recycling, a green, closed-loop process that recovers high-purity Pb from end-of-life modules via solvent-free leaching. Collectively, these advances demonstrate that robust Pb management is achievable without compromising photovoltaic performance, relying on mechanisms of chemical chelation, physical encapsulation, and integrated adsorption. The overarching aim is to reduce Pb leakage below regulatory thresholds (e.g., <15 ppb), enhance device durability, and establish a sustainable circular economy for perovskite materials. We conclude by highlighting the need for standardized ecological assessment protocols, scalable manufacturing of lead-safe materials, and long-term field validation to enable the safe and widespread deployment of this transformative solar technology.
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