The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Registration is a provision under the Plastic Waste Management Rules (PWM) in India, which requires manufacturers, brand owners, and importers of certain plastic products to take responsibility for their end-of-life management. The objective of this provision is to shift the onus of plastic waste management from local municipalities to the producers of plastic products.
Applicability of EPR Registration
The EPR registration is mandatory for producers of certain plastic products, including multi-layered plastic sachets, pouches, and packaging, plastic carry bags, and thermoset plastic products. Producers are required to register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) by submitting the required documents and paying the necessary fees.
The EPR registration requires producers to develop a waste management plan for their products, including strategies for collection, segregation, transportation, and disposal of their plastic waste. Producers are also required to meet annual recycling targets for their plastic waste, which will be determined by the CPCB or SPCB.
Process of obtaining EPR Registration for Plastic Waste
The process of obtaining EPR Registration for Plastic Waste Management Rules involves the following steps:
- Identification of the products: The first step is to identify if the products manufactured, imported or sold fall under the purview of the Plastic Waste Management Rules. The EPR registration applies to certain plastic products such as multi-layered plastic sachets, pouches and packaging, plastic carry bags, and thermoset plastic products.
- Preparation of the documents: The next step is to prepare the necessary documents required for EPR registration, including a copy of the registration certificate, a copy of the PAN card, and a copy of the GST registration certificate.
- Submission of application: The application for EPR registration must be submitted online through the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) portal, along with the required documents and fees.
- Evaluation of application: The SPCB or CPCB will evaluate the application and may request additional information or documents.
- Approval of registration: Upon satisfactory evaluation of the application, the SPCB or CPCB will approve the registration and issue a certificate of registration.
- Development of a waste management plan: After obtaining EPR registration, producers are required to develop a waste management plan for their products, including strategies for collection, segregation, transportation, and disposal of their plastic waste.
- Meeting annual recycling targets: Producers are also required to meet annual recycling targets for their plastic waste, which will be determined by the CPCB or SPCB.
Penalty for Non-compliance of EPR Registration
Non-compliance with the EPR registration and waste management targets can result in penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The EPR provision is a mandatory step towards creating a more sustainable and responsible approach to plastic waste management in India.
Conclusion
It is essential for producers, importer, bulk-consumer, brand owner of plastic and its associated product to reclycle the plastic as per government guideline and obtain EPR Registration. ASC Group to ensure compliance support and assistance throughout the process with the EPR Registration for Plastic Waste Management Rules and meet their EPR obligations.
