EPR Certification in India

In recent years, India has tightened its environmental compliance framework with a focus on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the number of EPR registrations grew by more than 35% in 2024 compared to 2023, showing how quickly businesses are adapting. Whether you are an importer, manufacturer, or brand owner, EPR certification is no longer optional — it is mandatory for operating in many regulated sectors like electronics, plastics, batteries, and tyres.

This blog will explain what EPR certification is, who needs it, the types of certifications, the step-by-step registration process, the documents required, the fees, and the penalties. Most importantly, we’ll show you how Green Permits makes EPR compliance hassle-free.

What is EPR Certification?

EPR stands for Extended Producer Responsibility. It is a legal obligation placed on producers, importers, and brand owners to ensure that waste generated from their products — after the end of their life — is collected and responsibly recycled.

The EPR certification is the official authorization issued by CPCB or the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), allowing a business to operate in compliance with waste management rules. It proves that the company has committed to recycling targets and will manage post-consumer waste through approved channels.

In short, EPR certification is the license that ensures your business meets India’s sustainability and compliance mandates.

Takeaway: Without EPR certification, selling regulated products in India can lead to penalties and business disruption.

Who Needs EPR Certification in India?

Any business that places regulated products in the Indian market requires EPR certification. This includes:

• Importers – Companies bringing in electronics, plastics, batteries, or tyres must register before selling.
• Manufacturers – Producers of these products, even if sold under other brand names.
• Brand Owners – Companies selling products under their brand, regardless of who manufactured them.

Takeaway: If your product eventually generates e-waste, plastic waste, battery waste, or tyre waste, you need EPR certification.

Types of EPR Certifications in India

Different waste streams have specific rules. Depending on your business, you may need one or more of these certifications:

• EPR Certification for E-Waste – For producers and importers of electronics and electrical equipment (EEE).
• EPR Certification for Plastic Waste – For companies placing plastic packaging or products into the market.
• EPR Certification for Battery Waste – Covers lead-acid, lithium-ion, and other types of batteries under Battery Waste Management Rules.
• EPR Certification for Tyre Waste – For manufacturers and importers of new and waste tyres.

Takeaway: Each waste type has its own CPCB guidelines, but the process of certification follows a similar online registration flow.

Benefits of EPR Certification for Businesses

• Regulatory Compliance – Stay legally compliant with CPCB and SPCB rules.
• Avoid Heavy Penalties – Non-compliance fines can go into lakhs or even crores, depending on the scale.
• Market Access – Many distributors and corporates only deal with EPR-certified suppliers.
• Sustainability Branding – Demonstrates commitment to ESG, attracting investors and global buyers.

Takeaway: EPR certification protects your business from risks and strengthens your market credibility.

Step-by-Step EPR Certification Process

Here’s how the process works in India:

1. Create a Login on CPCB/SPCB EPR Portal
   • Register your company on the official online portal.
2. Fill Online Application with KYC Documents
   • Upload PAN, GST, CIN, and other required details.
3. Submit Sales Data / EEE Details
   • Provide product categories, past sales volumes, and recycling obligations.
4. Pay EPR Registration Fees
   • Fees vary depending on waste category and sales volume.
5. Approval & Issuance of EPR Certificate
   • CPCB reviews your application and issues the certificate if all documents are valid.

Takeaway: A complete application with accurate sales and waste data speeds up approval significantly.

Documents Required for EPR Registration

To apply for EPR certification, you’ll need to prepare the following:

• PAN, GST, and CIN of the Company
• Import-Export Code (for importers)
• Consent to Operate under the Air & Water Act
• Product details & process flow diagram
• Self-declaration of compliance with waste management rules

Takeaway: Keep all compliance documents updated to avoid delays in approval.
Related Article:
EPR Authorization in India
EPR Registration and Compliances

EPR Certification Fees & Costs

The registration fees depend on product category and market size. Below is an indicative comparison:

EPR Certification Fees in India (as per CPCB 2024–25)

Stakeholder Type	Registration Fee	Renewal Fee	Other Charges
Producer	₹2,500 – ₹15,00,000 (based on annual recycling target)	Same as registration fee	₹10,000 for amendments
Recycler	₹15,000 (valid 5 years)	₹7,500 + ₹0.625/MT of EPR certificates	₹3,000 for amendments
Refurbisher	₹15,000 (valid 5 years)	₹7,500 + ₹0.625/MT of certificates	₹3,000 for amendments
Manufacturer	₹15,000 (one-time)	Not applicable	₹3,000 for amendments
Annual Maintenance (all stakeholders)	–	–	₹5,000 per year

Takeaway: Costs rise steeply with higher recycling targets — plan ahead for budgeting.

Validity, Renewal & Penalties

• Validity – EPR certificates are generally valid for 5 years.
• Renewal – Apply at least 120 days before expiry. Delays may cause disruptions.
• Penalties – Under MoEFCC rules, businesses failing to comply may face:
  • Suspension or cancellation of the certificate.
  • Heavy fines (calculated on recycling targets not met).
  • Legal action for continued violation.

Takeaway: Timely renewals and compliance reporting are as important as the initial certification.

Why Choose Green Permits for EPR Certification?

Navigating EPR compliance in India can be complex. Regulations are frequently updated, documents must be precise, and penalties for mistakes are harsh. That’s where Green Permits Consulting comes in.

• End-to-End Support – From registration to renewal.
• Sector Expertise – Electronics, plastics, batteries, and recycling plants.
• Trusted Advisory – Guidance aligned with the latest CPCB/MoEFCC notifications.
• Faster Approvals – Our process ensures applications are accurate and complete the first time.

Takeaway: Partnering with Green Permits saves time, reduces risk, and ensures peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion & Call to Action

EPR certification in India is no longer a “good-to-have” — it is a legal necessity for producers, importers, and brand owners. With rising enforcement by CPCB and SPCBs, businesses must prioritize compliance to avoid penalties and maintain market access.

📞 Need help with EPR Registration in India?
Call Green Permits: +91 7835006182
📧 Email: wecare@greenpermits.in
🌐 Visit: www.greenpermits.in

Green Permits makes EPR certification simple, fast, and fully compliant — so your business can grow without regulatory stress.