The EPR Certificate confirms that a business has a formal system in place to:
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Collect plastic waste generated from its products
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Ensure recycling or environmentally safe disposal
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Meet annual plastic waste recovery targets
It applies to:
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Producers (manufacturers of plastic packaging)
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Importers of plastic-packed goods
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Brand Owners selling products in plastic packaging
Why Is EPR Mandatory for Plastic Waste in India?
1. To Control Plastic Pollution
Plastic waste is non-biodegradable and causes long-term damage to land, water bodies, and marine life. EPR ensures that plastic waste is:
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Collected systematically
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Recycled through authorized recyclers
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Prevented from entering landfills and oceans
This directly reduces environmental pollution.
2. To Make Businesses Accountable
Earlier, plastic waste management was handled mainly by local authorities. EPR shifts responsibility to the businesses that introduce plastic into the market.
This ensures:
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Accountability for waste generation
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Responsible packaging practices
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Reduction in excessive plastic use
3. Mandatory Legal Requirement Under Indian Law
EPR certification is enforced under:
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Plastic Waste Management Rules
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Environmental Protection Act
Without EPR certification, businesses may face:
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Heavy penalties
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Suspension of operations
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Ban on sale or import of products
Compliance is legally compulsory.
4. Mandatory for Import and Sale of Plastic-Packaged Goods
EPR certification is required for:
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Importing plastic-packed goods into India
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Selling through distributors and retailers
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Listing products on e-commerce platforms
Without EPR approval, customs clearance and market access may be denied.
5. To Promote Recycling and Circular Economy
EPR supports India’s circular economy goals by ensuring plastic waste is recycled and reused.
This helps:
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Recover valuable plastic materials
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Reduce dependence on virgin plastic
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Support authorized recycling industries
6. To Ensure Transparency and Traceability
EPR registration requires businesses to:
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Declare plastic quantities introduced in the market
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Report waste collection and recycling data
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Meet CPCB-defined targets
This improves transparency and regulatory monitoring.
7. To Align Businesses with Sustainability and ESG Goals
EPR compliance demonstrates environmental responsibility.
It helps businesses:
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Improve brand reputation
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Meet ESG and sustainability reporting requirements
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Gain consumer trust
Eco-compliant brands are preferred in the modern market.
Conclusion
The EPR Certificate for Plastic Waste Management is mandatory in India to control plastic pollution, ensure business accountability, and promote sustainable waste management. It is not just a regulatory obligation but a vital step toward environmental protection and responsible business practices. For 2026 and beyond, EPR compliance is essential for businesses dealing in plastic packaging in India.