When a mid-sized FMCG brand in Pune was suddenly flagged by a retailer for missing its CPCB EPR number, panic set in. The sales team had no idea why the portal login mattered so much — until they learned that without a valid EPR certificate, no packaged goods could legally be sold or imported in India.
This story isn’t unique. Across industries, thousands of producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) are waking up to a new reality — environmental compliance isn’t just about doing the right thing; it’s about staying in business.
If you’re wondering how to apply for your Plastic EPR Certificate online, this guide will walk you through the latest 2025 process, required documents, updated fees, and the compliance changes every business needs to know.
What Is a Plastic EPR Certificate and Why It Matters
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is India’s way of making businesses accountable for the plastic they introduce into the market. It ensures that producers, importers, and brand owners take responsibility for collecting and recycling plastic waste generated from their products.
Under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, businesses must register on the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) portal and obtain an EPR Certificate before selling or importing plastic-packaged goods.
From July 1, 2025, every PIBO will also have to print their EPR registration number or QR/barcode on plastic packaging, linking the product to its environmental responsibility credentials.
In short, the EPR certificate is your official environmental license — and without it, you simply cannot operate legally.
Who Needs to Register on the CPCB EPR Portal
The rule applies to all types of producers and brand owners dealing in plastic, whether directly or indirectly. You must register on the CPCB’s online Plastic EPR Portal if you are:
- A Producer manufacturing plastic packaging or raw materials.
- An Importer bringing plastic-packaged products or packaging material into India.
- A Brand Owner selling products under your own name, even if you outsource manufacturing.
Even businesses that use small quantities of packaging are required to register — there is no exemption for startups or SMEs. Every PIBO must obtain an EPR certificate to legally operate and sell in India.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Plastic EPR Certificate Online
Getting your EPR registration through the CPCB portal is a structured but technical process. Here’s how to complete it smoothly.
1. Sign Up on the CPCB EPR Portal
Visit the official CPCB Plastic EPR Portal (https://cpcbeprplastic.in) and create your login credentials using your company PAN, GST, and authorized email ID. An OTP will be sent for verification.
2. Fill Out Company Details
Once logged in, provide your company information — business name, address (as per GST certificate), CIN number (if applicable), IEC (for importers), and authorized person details.
Ensure all data matches your legal documents; mismatched information is one of the most common reasons for rejection.
3. Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of your PAN, GST, CIN/IEC, SPCB consents (if you have a manufacturing unit), and the signature of your authorized representative. File formats must be PDF or JPG.
4. Enter Plastic Usage and Product Details
Enter packaging and plastic consumption data for the past two financial years. This helps CPCB determine your EPR obligation and category (based on tonnage).
5. Submit EPR Action Plan
Provide a brief plan on how your company will meet its EPR targets — for example, whether you will collaborate with registered recyclers, waste processors, or Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs).
6. Pay Application Fees Online
Fees depend on your company’s annual plastic generation capacity (see fee table below). Payment is made through the integrated payment gateway on the portal.
7. CPCB Review and Deficiency Communication
Once your application is submitted, CPCB reviews it for completeness. If any document or data is missing, you’ll receive a deficiency notice within about 25 working days. Update and resubmit the required details through the same dashboard.
8. Certificate Issuance
Upon successful review, CPCB issues your EPR Registration Certificate digitally via the portal. You can download it directly from your dashboard. The certificate is valid for one year initially, with a three-year renewal period thereafter.
Documents Required for Plastic EPR Registration
Before you begin, prepare all your documents in PDF format for smooth uploading.
| Category | Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Business Identity | PAN Card, GST Certificate, CIN Certificate (for companies), IEC Certificate (for importers) |
| Authorized Person | ID proof of authorized representative (Aadhaar or PAN) and authorization letter |
| Operational Compliance | Valid CTE and CTO from State Pollution Control Board (if manufacturing unit) |
| Packaging & Sales Data | Plastic packaging details and usage data for the previous two financial years |
| Supporting Declarations | Covering letter, self-declaration on authenticity of data, compliance affidavit on company letterhead |
Pro tip: Make sure the address mentioned in your GST and supporting documents is the same as your registered business address. CPCB often rejects applications with mismatched data.
Plastic EPR Registration Fees and Validity (2025 Update)
The CPCB has defined a transparent fee structure based on your company’s annual plastic waste generation:
| Plastic Waste Generation (TPA) | Application Fee (₹) | Renewal Fee (₹) | Annual Processing Fee (₹) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 1,000 TPA | 10,000 | 10,000 | 25% of application fee | 1 year (initial), 3 years (renewal) |
| 1,000 – 10,000 TPA | 20,000 | 20,000 | 25% of application fee | 1 year (initial), 3 years (renewal) |
| More than 10,000 TPA | 50,000 | 50,000 | 25% of application fee | 1 year (initial), 3 years (renewal) |
If your operations expand or new product lines are added, an additional ₹10,000 amendment fee may apply.
Timeline and Renewal Process
- Application Review: Typically processed within 15–30 days if all documents are complete.
- Deficiency Notice: Issued within 25 working days in case of missing or inconsistent data.
- Renewal Timeline: Apply at least four months before your current registration expires.
- Renewal Requirements: Updated sales data, annual return filings, and audit reports are mandatory.
- Amendments: Any change in product category, packaging type, or target requires prior approval from CPCB.
Timely renewal ensures that your registration remains active and your business operations continue without interruption.
Compliance Risks and Penalties for Non-Compliance
With the 2025 amendment to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, CPCB has tightened enforcement around EPR. Non-compliance or false declaration now attracts penalties under Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Depending on the severity, this could mean:
- Monetary penalties up to ₹1,00,000 per violation
- Temporary suspension of business license
- Legal action or prosecution in extreme cases
In addition, e-commerce platforms and major retailers have started verifying EPR credentials before onboarding suppliers. Failure to maintain compliance can result in product de-listing or blocked shipments.
Example: A personal-care startup in Delhi ignored its EPR renewal reminders. When their products were flagged during a compliance audit, the entire consignment was held back — delaying sales for over a month and resulting in heavy losses.
Benefits of Timely EPR Compliance
- Smooth Market Operations – Enables uninterrupted sales, import, and supply chain activities.
- Enhanced Brand Reputation – Demonstrates environmental responsibility, boosting customer trust.
- Investor and Retail Readiness – Increasingly, investors and large retailers require proof of EPR compliance.
- Eligibility for Green Partnerships – Compliance opens doors for collaborations with recyclers and circular economy initiatives.
- Legal Protection – Avoids penalties, disruptions, and reputation risks.
In essence, early registration and timely renewal not only protect your business but also position your brand as a responsible, sustainable player.
Conclusion
CPCB’s Plastic EPR registration is no longer optional — it’s a compliance gateway for every business using plastic packaging in India. With new barcode and QR code labeling mandates effective from July 2025, staying ahead of the curve is essential.
Filing your application early helps you avoid delays, protect your supply chain, and build a reputation as a compliant, future-ready organization.
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FAQs
The initial validity is one year. Upon renewal, it extends to three years.
Typically between 15 to 30 working days, depending on document accuracy and response time to deficiencies.
₹10,000, ₹20,000, or ₹50,000 depending on your annual plastic waste generation capacity.
Yes, from July 1, 2025, all PIBOs must print their EPR registration number or QR code on packaging.
Yes, foreign companies can register through their authorized Indian representatives.
Your registration may lapse, and you’ll need to reapply. Business operations may be suspended until reapproval is granted.
