While the physical and chemical properties of plastic made it one of the most useful products for humans, plastics were not welcomed by the nature for the same reasons. Tons of plastic are generated in India every day which if not dealt with properly can lead to a prolonged environmental crisis. Due to environmental concerns, various regulations have been put in place for the restricted and responsible use of plastic. The government notified the Plastic Waste Management Regulations 2016.
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
As per the Plastic Waste Management Regulations, 2016 and E-waste Management Rules, 2016, responsibility has been placed upon the producers and importers to appropriately recycle or dispose of the e-waste. EPR refers to the responsibility placed upon the producers to manage the disposal of products that are no longer useful for the customers. The aim is to create a system that takes care of the collection of the material, its segregation and transportation to the waste disposal facility.
Applicability of EPR Registration
Following is the applicability of EPR for plastic waste management:
- The plastic waste management rule shall be applicable to each local body, waste generator, importers, manufacturers, brand owners and producers of plastic products.
- The producers, recyclers, brand owners, plastic manufacturers and traders shall obtain EPR registration from state pollution control board. In the case of union territories, the registration shall be obtained from pollution control committees.
Why is EPR Registration Needed?
While we focus on business and profits, it is equally important to focus on our environmental responsibility. Plastic is one of the most hazardous substances for the environment and therefore, the government has put in place EPR regulations to ensure that plastic waste is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Non-compliance with EPR Registration requirements can lead to the cancellation of the EPR authorization.
Procedure of EPR Registration
Following is the procedure for obtaining an EPR license:
- Fill out the requisite Form I, II or III as may be applicable to your business
- Attach all the requisite documents along with the form. All the documents shall be signed by the authorised person
- The form shall be submitted to the concerned Central or State Pollution Control Board (CPCB/SPCB) or the pollution control committee
- Liaison with the concerned department and authorities
- If the form and requisite documents are found satisfactory to the officer, then the EPR authorisation certificate shall be issued. In case of any objection, the same shall be clarified to the satisfaction of the official.
Documents Required for EPR Authorisation
Following are the documents required for EPR authorisation:
- PAN and Aadhaar card of the authorised representative
- GST certificate of the organisation
- Office address proof
- Trade or factory license
- Plan or layout of the unit
- Board resolution for the appointment of an authorised representative
- Registration certificate/incorporation certificate of the entity
- Memorandum of Association
- Articles of Association
EPR authorization is necessary for the proper and responsible disposal of plastic waste. In case you require any assistance with EPR registration and licensing, then feel free to contact the ASC Group.
Original Source-https://ascgroup.mystrikingly.com/blog/why-is-eprauthorization-registration-needed-for-plastic-waste-management
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