Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Certificate is a mandatory authorization issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for businesses that manufacture, import, or sell products generating electronic, plastic, battery, or tyre waste. The main purpose of this certificate is to ensure that companies take responsibility for collecting and recycling the waste generated from their products.
Getting an EPR Certificate might seem complex at first, but when broken into clear steps, the process becomes simple and manageable. Below is a complete, easy-to-understand guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an EPR Certificate
1. Identify Your Applicable Category
EPR is required for:
-
Electronics & Electrical Equipment (EEE)
-
Plastic Packaging
-
Batteries (Portable, Automotive, Industrial)
-
Tyres
You must check under which category your products fall, as the documentation and obligations differ for each.
2. Collect All Required Documents
Some common documents include:
-
Company PAN, GST, CIN
-
Import-Export Code (if importer)
-
Product list with HSN codes
-
Authorized person’s details
-
Waste management plan
-
Recycling/Collection mechanism details
-
Agreement with a registered Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), Recycler, or Collection Agency
3. Register on CPCB’s EPR Portal
You must create an account on the Central Pollution Control Board website and choose the relevant category (E-Waste, Plastic, Battery, or Tyre).
4. Fill the Application Form
Provide:
-
Company information
-
Product details
-
Proposed collection & recycling targets
-
Details of PROs/Recyclers tied to your business
Double-check all data before submission to avoid rejection.
5. Upload Documents & Submit Fees
Scan and upload all documents in the required format. Some categories require the payment of a registration fee depending on company size and activity.
6. Application Review by CPCB
CPCB verifies:
-
Authenticity of documents
-
Feasibility of collection and recycling plan
-
Agreements with PROs/Recyclers
7. Receive EPR Certificate
If everything is found correct, CPCB issues your EPR Authorization Certificate, usually valid for 5 years, after which renewal is required.
Infographic-Style Quick Steps
-
Check Category → E-Waste / Plastic / Battery / Tyre
-
Prepare Documents → Company + Product + Recycling Plans
-
Register → CPCB EPR Portal
-
Fill Form → Provide product & waste management details
-
Upload → Agreements with PRO/Recycler
-
Pay → Applicable fees
-
Verification → CPCB assessment
-
Approval → Receive EPR Certificate
