Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a vital component of India's waste management framework, focusing on the responsible disposal and recycling of plastic and electronic waste (E-waste). Under the guidance of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Ministry of Environment, Forest andClimate Change has set up EPR authorization to hold manufacturers and importers accountable for the lifecycle of their products. This initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of waste while promoting sustainable recycling and disposal practices across the country.
Categories of EPR
EPR applies to various sectors, particularly for plastic and electronic waste management. Producers, manufacturers, importers andbrand owners are all required to follow EPR guidelines to ensure that their products do not contribute to environmental pollution after use. The EPR Authorization certifies that these entities are taking responsibility for the collection, recycling andsafe disposal of their products.
- Plastic Waste Management: Producers and brand owners of plastic packaging are obligated to manage the lifecycle of their products, ensuring they are recyclable, reusable, or disposed of responsibly.
- E-Waste Management: Manufacturers and importers of electrical and electronic products must comply with regulations for the collection, recycling anddisposal of electronic waste.
The central objective of EPR is to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic and e-waste by ensuring that manufacturers take responsibility for the end-of-life of their products.
Products Covered Under EPR Certification
EPR certification applies to the following categories of products:
- Mandatory Products
- Includes specific categories of plastic packaging and e-waste products as prescribed by the government.
- Voluntary Products
- Additional product categories that companies may choose to cover under EPR to support sustainable practices.
- New Product Guidelines
- Newly introduced products that must comply with EPR regulations for waste management.
Benefits of EPR Registration
EPR registration for plastic and e-waste offers several key advantages:
- Environmental Benefits: Ensures proper waste disposal, helping to reduce pollution caused by plastic and e-waste.
- Compliance with Regulations: Adhering to pollution control rules and regulations promotes responsible manufacturing and product lifecycle management.
- Eco-Friendly Waste Management: Encourages the recycling and safe disposal of hazardous materials, safeguarding ecosystems and reducing the carbon footprint.
- Business Advantage: Demonstrates corporate responsibility, which is increasingly valued by consumers and regulatory bodies.
- Global Market Access: Obtaining EPR certification makes it easier for companies to expand into international markets with sustainability as a competitive edge.
EPR for Electronic Products
Under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, manufacturers and importers of electronic products are required to take full responsibility for managing the end-of-life stage of their products. This includes setting up collection and recycling systems to ensure that electronic waste is properly managed. EPR for electronic products encourages companies to design more sustainable products, reducing waste and promoting recycling.
EPR for Batteries
Battery waste is a growing concern in India, especially with the rise of electric vehicles and electronic products. As per the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, battery manufacturers are mandated to obtain EPR authorization from CPCB and establish collection systems to manage used batteries. The EPR system for batteries requires producers to ensure that a specific percentage of used batteries are collected, recycled anddisposed of safely. Non-compliance with these rules results in penalties, thus promoting responsible battery disposal.
EPR for Plastic Packaging
Introduced through the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, EPR for plastic packaging mandates that producers, importers andbrand owners take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of plastic products. This includes collection, recycling, re-use andsafe disposal. The aim is to reduce plastic waste in landfills and the environment, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable planet.
Conclusion
The E-Waste (Management) Rules 2022, which are set to come into effect in 2023, bring new requirements for manufacturers, producers, refurbishers andrecyclers of electronic products. All entities involved in the production, import, or recycling of e-waste must register on the designated portal and ensure compliance with proper disposal and recycling practices. Failure to register or comply is considered unlawful.
Our team is dedicated to providing end-to-end assistance to applicants seeking EPR authorization. We support clients throughout the entire process, from document preparation to final authorization issuance. Whether you are involved in plastic or e-waste management, we ensure that your operations meet the necessary compliance standards, helping you contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
For more details and assistance, contact us today!