What is EPR Certification?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a regulatory framework that holds producers, importers, and brand owners responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, especially post-consumption waste management. This encourages the design of products that are easier to recycle and reuse.
In India, under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and other waste regulations, EPR certification is mandatory. It demonstrates a company's commitment to sustainability, ensures compliance, and enhances brand image among environmentally-conscious consumers.
EPR Approval Procedure Overview
EPR regulations in India cover several categories of waste. The certification process involves registration, planning, implementation, and reporting.
Major EPR Categories
Plastic Waste
Packaging materials
E-Waste
Electronics & electricals
Battery Waste
All types of batteries
Tyre Waste
Used vehicle tyres
General Certification Process
- 1Registration: Register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).
- 2Plan Submission: Submit a detailed EPR action plan detailing your waste management and recycling strategy.
- 3Implementation: Execute your plan through collection systems, take-back schemes, and partnerships with recyclers.
- 4Reporting: Submit annual reports on the quantity of waste collected and recycled to maintain compliance.
Detailed EPR Category Definitions
Plastic Packaging Waste
Mandates that producers manage the waste from their packaging materials, encouraging recyclable and sustainable packaging design.
E-Waste
Requires manufacturers of electronics (phones, computers) to handle the collection, safe recycling, and proper disposal of used devices.
Battery Waste
Holds manufacturers responsible for collecting and recycling used batteries (lead-acid, lithium-ion) to prevent environmental contamination.
Tyre Waste
Requires tyre manufacturers to manage the end-of-life of their products, ensuring used tyres are properly recycled or repurposed.
Developing Your EPR Strategy
How to Design an EPR Plan
- Establish collection systems (e.g., drop-off points, reverse logistics).
- Partner with authorized recyclers and waste processors.
- Set clear, achievable recycling targets based on regulations.
- Define a funding mechanism, such as fees or joining a collective system.
- Create public awareness campaigns to educate consumers.
- Implement tracking and reporting mechanisms for annual compliance.
Registration & Documentation
Producers must register with the CPCB or relevant SPCB by providing company details, product information, and waste management plans.
Key Documents:
- Copy of company registration.
- Product range and waste type details.
- Proposed waste management mechanisms.
Ready to Fulfill Your Environmental Responsibility?
Navigating EPR regulations can be challenging. Let our experts develop your action plan, manage your registration, and ensure your business is compliant and sustainable.