India Proposes Comprehensive Packaging Waste Regulations

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, has released a draft notification proposing extensive regulations to manage waste generated from packaging materials and sanitary products. These rules, which will take effect from April 1, 2026, are designed to promote sustainable waste management practices by encouraging recycling, reuse, and responsible disposal.

The proposal is part of India's more comprehensive plan for the environment that will address issues of degradation, as well as the establishment of a circular economy. Through EPR, the government would like to see to it that producers, importers, and owners of brands become responsible for packaging materials at their lifecycle stages. The new policy will be concerning packaging of paper, glass, and metal with the exclusion of non-ferrous metals as well as sanitary products, which include diapers and sanitary napkins.

It has been mentioned that the manufacturing, importing, and brand-owning entities (MIBOs) undertaking the production, importation, or marketing of packaging materials and sanitary products will be liable for online registration under an EPR portal of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This kind of registration of companies with the help of the government would ensure the management of recycling and waste generation targets.

Under the EPR framework, MIBOs will be mandated to achieve progressive recycling targets from 2026 to 2030:

• Paper, Metal, and Glass: Recycling targets set at 70% for the initial year, gradually increasing to 100% by 2029-30.

• Sanitary Products: A phased collection and responsible disposal target, starting at 60% in 2026-27, increasing to 100% by 2029-30.

Promoting a Circular Economy

The proposed regulations reflect the importance of recycling in producing packaging. Manufacturers must ensure that at least 70% of their paper packaging, 50% of their metal packaging, and 80% of their glass packaging are recycled by 2029-30. Its objective is to save virgin raw materials from extraction, ensuring resource conservation and environmental protection.

To further strengthen the circular economy, the government will establish mechanisms for trading EPR certificates. Companies exceeding their recycling targets can sell their surplus certificates to those unable to meet their obligations. This market-based approach is expected to encourage greater compliance and innovation in waste management.

Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance

The draft notification imposes heavy penalties on entities not meeting EPR targets. Charges of environmental compensation are to be drawn upon defaulting entities as warranted by the degree of shortage in meeting recycling targets. Entities that fail for three consecutive years may have their registration revoked and will also be liable under the Environment  Act, 1986.

Role of Local Authorities and Waste Processors

Local authorities and registered waste processors will play a crucial role in the implementation of the EPR framework. They will be responsible for collecting and processing waste materials, ensuring that they are recycled or disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. The draft also mandates the establishment of Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) to streamline waste segregation and processing.

Public Consultation Period

For 60 days, the government has invited public comments and suggestions on the draft notification. Industry representatives, environmental organizations, citizens, and others can submit their feedback to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change via email or post.

A step towards environmental sustainability

Speaking on the significance of the draft regulations, a senior official from the Ministry stated, “These rules represent a critical step toward achieving India’s sustainability goals. By promoting recycling and responsible waste management, we are not only protecting the environment but also creating new employment opportunities and fostering innovation in the waste management sector.”

Environmental experts have lauded the government’s move, calling it a timely intervention to address the growing issue of packaging waste. However, they have also urged the government to ensure strict enforcement and provide support to small and medium enterprises to comply with the new regulations.

As India takes this significant step towards sustainable waste management, all eyes will be on the implementation of these regulations and their impact on the environment and industry practices.