Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Authorization for P-Waste, which stands for Packaging Waste, is a regulatory framework designed to shift the responsibility for managing packaging waste from end consumers and local governments to the manufacturers, importers and brand owners of packaged products. It places the onus on these entities to take environmental responsibility for the entire life cycle of their packaging materials, from production to recycling or disposal.

Under EPR Authorization for P-Waste, manufacturers in the packaging industry are required to establish and fund systems for collecting, recycling and disposing of packaging waste in an environmentally responsible manner. This approach is intended to encourage the reduction of packaging waste and promote sustainable practices in packaging design and materials selection.

EPR Authorization programs for P-Waste typically involve collaboration between government agencies, industry associations and relevant stakeholders to define clear responsibilities, set recycling targets and monitor compliance. These programs aim to minimize the environmental impact of packaging waste, reduce landfill usage and conserve resources by encouraging the development of recycling infrastructure and sustainable packaging practices.

EPR registration certificate on the centralized EPR portal established by CPCB must be obtained by the following entities:

• Manufacturers
• Importers
• Brand owners
• Plastic waste processors involved in activities such as recycling, waste-to-energy, waste-to-oil, and industrial composting

Registration of Manufacturers, Importers and Brand Owners via Plastic EPR Portal as per Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016

On February 16, 2022, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEF&CC) introduced an amendment to the Plastic Waste Management Rules (Plastic Waste Management Amendment Rules). The amendment aims to enforce Extended Producer Responsibility, following the regulations and guidelines outlined in Schedule II. According to Clause 10.1 of the Guidelines, producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) are required to adhere to the regulations and standards specified in Schedule II. Furthermore, Clause 10.2 stipulates that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) will oversee the completion of the Standard Operating Procedure for registration and the action plan pro-forma. Pollution Inventory and Reporting Officers must obtain EPR registration from CPCB if they operate in more than two States/Union Territories, while other PIBOs should register with the relevant State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) or Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) as per the rules detailed in this document.

To comply with the amendment notification, the CPCB has initiated the development of a portal including the following modules:

• EPR Registration for PIBOs
• Registration of PWPs
• Trading & Settlement of EPR obligations by PIBOs
• Filing of Annual Returns by stakeholders
• Levying of Environmental Compensation
• Third Party Audits
• Training/Capacity Building of stakeholders

Key Responsibilities of Manufacturers Under EPRA for P-waste

Manufacturers falling under EPRA's purview are required to fulfil several significant responsibilities:

• Establish collection mechanisms for P-waste generated from their products.
• Ensure the safe transportation of collected P-waste to authorized recycling and disposal facilities.
• Collaborate with registered P-waste agencies or recyclers to properly recycle and treat collected waste.
• Develop and fund public awareness campaigns to educate consumers on responsible P-waste disposal.
• Maintain comprehensive records of P-waste management activities, including collection, transportation and disposal.

Importance of EPR Authorization for P-waste

EPR Authorization for P-waste is important for manufacturers operating in the Indian market in several ways:

• By complying with EPR regulations, manufacturers can avoid legal penalties and compliance issues.
• It demonstrates a commitment to eco-friendly P-waste management.
• It enhances the brand's reputation by showcasing environmental responsibility.
• It promotes sustainable resource management through proper recycling and waste reduction.
• It helps mitigate pollution and the environmental impact of improper P-waste disposal, contributing to a healthier environment.

Brand Liaison specializes in guiding manufacturers through the EPR Registration process for P-waste. With our expertise, you can obtain the EPR Registration Certificate seamlessly.

Kindly get in touch with Brand Liaison for quick and efficient EPR Registration services for E-waste!