Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is an environmental policy under which producers, brand owners, and importers are legally responsible for managing the waste generated from their packaging materials after the product is used by consumers.
In India, EPR for packaging is governed by the Plastic Waste Management Rules, along with guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The main objective of EPR is to reduce plastic pollution, promote recycling, and shift waste management responsibility from governments to businesses.
1. Meaning of EPR in Packaging
EPR requires companies that introduce packaging into the market to ensure:
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Collection of post-consumer packaging waste
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Environmentally sound recycling or disposal
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Compliance with recycling targets set by authorities
Packaging covered under EPR includes:
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Plastic packaging (rigid and flexible)
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Multi-layered packaging
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Primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging
2. Who Is Covered Under Packaging EPR?
EPR obligations apply to:
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Producers – Manufacturers of packaging material
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Brand Owners – Companies selling products under their brand
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Importers – Businesses importing packaged goods or packaging material
If your business places packaged products in the Indian market, EPR compliance is mandatory.
3. Objectives of EPR in the Packaging Industry
The key goals of EPR are:
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Reducing plastic waste going to landfills
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Encouraging recycling and reuse of packaging
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Promoting sustainable packaging alternatives
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Holding businesses accountable for environmental impact
EPR supports India’s broader sustainability and circular economy goals.
4. Key EPR Obligations for Packaging Waste
Under EPR rules, businesses must:
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Register on the CPCB EPR portal
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Declare annual packaging quantities
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Meet category-wise recycling targets
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Work with authorized recyclers or PROs
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Submit periodic compliance reports
Failure to meet targets can result in penalties or environmental compensation.
5. Role of CPCB and SPCBs
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CPCB sets national EPR guidelines, targets, and monitoring systems
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State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) oversee local implementation and enforcement
All EPR activities are tracked digitally to ensure transparency.
6. Benefits of EPR for the Packaging Industry
EPR is not just a compliance requirement—it offers long-term advantages:
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Improved brand image and consumer trust
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Encouragement of eco-friendly packaging design
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Reduced environmental footprint
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Better regulatory readiness for global markets
7. Consequences of Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with packaging EPR can lead to:
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Heavy environmental compensation charges
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Suspension of business operations
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Legal action and reputational damage
Hence, EPR compliance is essential for business continuity.
Conclusion
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in the packaging industry ensures that businesses take responsibility for the environmental impact of their packaging waste. By enforcing collection, recycling, and sustainable disposal, EPR helps reduce pollution, supports recycling ecosystems, and promotes responsible business practices. In 2026 and beyond, EPR compliance is a critical requirement for any company operating in India’s packaging and FMCG ecosystem.