What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?

In early 2024, a leading FMCG company in India was issued a notice by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for failing to meet its plastic waste recycling targets. Despite strong sales and a robust distribution network, the brand struggled with compliance — proving that Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is no longer optional but a binding obligation So, what exactly is EPR, why does it matter, and how can businesses in India navigate these rules without risking penalties? Let’s dive deep.

Extended Producer Responsibility Definition

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy framework where producers remain responsible for the environmental impact of their products, even after those products are discarded as waste. In simple terms: Get latest Updates https://www.greenpermits.in/epr-registration-and-compliances/

• • You make, import, or sell a product → you are also responsible for what happens when it turns into waste.

• • This responsibility covers collection, recycling, and safe disposal.

EPR Meaning in Waste Management

In waste management, EPR ensures that companies finance or manage post-consumer waste, instead of passing the burden entirely to municipalities. This encourages eco-friendly design, reduced plastic use, and better recycling systems.

Why EPR is Important in India

India generates 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually (MoEFCC, 2022), of which only about 60% is collected and less than 30% gets recycled. The rest often ends up in landfills, rivers, or oceans. Without EPR:

• • Municipalities remain overburdened.

• • Informal recycling workers operate without safety nets.

• • Businesses face reputational damage.

With EPR:

• • Producers take accountability.

• • Recycling ecosystems strengthen.

• • India moves closer to its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Why businesses should care:

• • CPCB has begun strict enforcement.

• • Non-compliance can lead to penalties, suspension of licenses, or product bans.

Benefits of Extended Producer Responsibility

EPR isn’t just compliance; it’s a growth opportunity.

1. • Environmental Benefits

• • Less waste in landfills and oceans.

• • Higher recycling rates.

• • Reduced carbon footprint.

• • Economic Benefits

• • Boosts recycling & waste management industry.

• • Encourages innovation in eco-friendly packaging.

• • Potential cost savings through circular economy models.

• • Reputation & CSR Benefits

• • Enhances ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) scores.

• • Improves brand image with eco-conscious consumers.

• • Qualifies companies for CSR credit under sustainability initiatives.

The EPR Framework under Plastic Waste Management Rules

EPR in India is legally anchored under the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016, amended in 2022. Key features:

• • Applicable Waste Streams: Plastic packaging, e-waste, batteries, and other hazardous waste.

• • Responsibility: Producers, Importers, and Brand Owners (PIBOs) must manage end-of-life disposal.

• • Targets: CPCB sets annual collection and recycling targets.

• • Monitoring: Annual returns to CPCB and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).

Plastic waste is classified into categories:

1. • Rigid plastic packaging.

• • Flexible plastic packaging.

• • Multi-layered packaging.

• • Compostable plastics.

Who Needs EPR Authorization in India?

If you fall into any of these categories, you must obtain EPR authorization:

• • Producers: Manufacturers of plastic packaging or products.

• • Importers: Bringing plastic-packaged goods or raw plastic into India.

• • Brand Owners: Companies selling products under their brand name, regardless of actual manufacturer.

Examples:

• • An FMCG brand using sachet packaging.

• • An electronics importer selling mobile phones with chargers.

• • An e-commerce company shipping products in plastic.

Process of Getting EPR Registration Online

The CPCB EPR Registration Portal allows businesses to apply online for EPR authorization.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. • Create an account on the CPCB EPR portal.

• • Fill in company details (CIN, GST, PAN, IEC for importers).

• • Submit product and packaging details.

• • Upload recycling or disposal agreements with authorized recyclers.

• • Pay the application fee online.

• • Await CPCB/SPCB review (30–60 days typical).

• • Download EPR Certificate once approved.

Documents Required for EPR Registration

To apply successfully, you’ll need:

• • Company PAN, GST certificate, CIN (for corporates).

• • Import Export Code (IEC) (for importers).

• • Details of products & packaging materials.

• • Agreement/MoU with authorized recyclers.

• • Pollution NOC/Consent (where applicable).

• • Board Resolution/Authorization Letter.

Cost of EPR Authorization in India

The cost varies depending on the waste type, company scale, and consultant chosen.

• • Government fee: ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 (for registration/renewal).

• • Consulting & compliance fee: ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 (market rates).

• • Annual compliance reporting cost: Additional.

Tip: Hiring a consultant reduces rejection risk and speeds approval.

EPR Certificate for Plastic Waste Management

The EPR Certificate issued by CPCB/SPCB confirms compliance.

• • Valid for 1–3 years, renewable.

• • Ensures companies meet annual collection/recycling targets.

• • Mandatory for businesses before selling/importing in India.

• • Needed for customs clearance (importers).

Examples of Extended Producer Responsibility in Action

1. • India — FMCG Packaging

• • A beverage company sets up collection centers across states to retrieve used PET bottles.

• • Electronics Importer

• • An importer partners with an e-waste recycler to take back old mobile phones under EPR rules.

• • Europe — Batteries Directive

• • EU requires battery manufacturers to finance collection and recycling of used batteries — a global benchmark for India’s EPR system.

Green Permits EPR Consulting Services

At Green Permits Consulting, we simplify EPR compliance:

• • End-to-End Service: From feasibility to certification.

• • PAN India Support: Authorized EPR consultants in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and beyond.

• • Customized Solutions: For FMCG, electronics, importers, recyclers, and startups.

• • Direct CPCB Coordination: Faster application approvals.

• • Affordable Consulting Fees: Transparent pricing, no hidden charges.

Need to apply for EPR certificate online? Hire Green Permits — India’s trusted EPR compliance agency.

Conclusion

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is more than a compliance checkbox — it is India’s roadmap to sustainable growth. By managing waste responsibly, businesses protect the planet, build consumer trust, and stay future-ready. Green Permits Consulting offers complete support for EPR authorization, certificate application, and compliance management. Contact us today to simplify your EPR journey and grow responsibly.

FAQs on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Q1. What is Extended Producer Responsibility with an example?

EPR means producers are responsible for waste. Example: A soft drink brand collects used PET bottles through recycling partners.

Q2. Who requires EPR authorization in India?

All producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) handling plastic-packaged goods.

Q3. How long does it take to get EPR registration?

Typically 30–60 working days, depending on CPCB review.

Q4. What are the penalties for non-compliance?

CPCB can impose fines, suspend business licenses, or ban product sales.

Q5. Can small businesses or MSMEs get exemptions?

Yes, micro-enterprises with turnover under a certain threshold may get relaxed compliance, but most PIBOs still require registration.