Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is now a mandatory environmental compliance framework in India for businesses that manufacture, import, distribute, or sell products that generate regulated waste. Indian environmental laws require such entities to take responsibility beyond production and sales, ensuring the proper collection, recycling, and environmentally safe disposal of waste arising from their products.
EPR obligations apply across multiple waste streams, including electronic waste, plastic waste, batteries, waste oil, and tyres. Companies operating in these categories must implement approved waste management mechanisms in line with regulatory standards to remain compliant with Indian pollution control regulations.
To fulfil these statutory responsibilities, eligible entities are required to obtain an EPR Registration Certificate, commonly known as EPR Certification. This registration is issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or the relevant State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), depending on the type of waste and applicable rules.
This guide provides a comprehensive explanation of what EPR certification is, who is required to obtain EPR registration in India, the categories covered under EPR compliance, and how expert compliance support helps businesses navigate the EPR registration process smoothly and efficiently.
What is an EPR Certificate?
An EPR certificate is a mandatory authorization that ensures companies take environmental responsibility for waste generated from their products. It also confirms that the producer has contracted the collection, recycling, or environmentally friendly disposal of waste by a certified recycler or PROs (Producer Responsibility Organizations).
This certificate is issued upon assessment of the EPR plan, business operations, and recycling facilities of the company. It also creates several annual targets that companies have to achieve by using verified recyclers. CertificationsBay helps manufacturers and importers manage the certification of plastic waste, e-waste, battery waste, used oil, and waste tyres through complete EPR compliance solutions.
Key Waste Categories and Compliance
India’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations cover multiple types of waste. Companies dealing with any of these waste streams shall secure EPR registration to comply with legal requirements and ensure environmentally safe waste management.
Battery Waste
Businesses involved in the production, import, or sale of batteries are required to follow the Battery Waste Management Rules. This includes:
- Manufacturers and importers of industrial, automotive, EV, and portable batteries
- Electronics companies selling battery-operated devices
- EV manufacturers and importers
- Companies selling battery-powered gadgets
Battery waste contains hazardous chemicals and must be recycled using specialized processes. EPR certification guarantees that companies adopt a circular economy approach, recovering materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
Plastic Waste
Plastic waste management in India emphasizes sustainable practices. Companies that must register under EPR for plastic include:
- Plastic manufacturers
- Producers using plastic packaging
- Importers of products with plastic packaging
- FMCG brands
- Online marketplaces shipping goods in plastic
These companies are required to support recycling programs and ensure that plastic waste is collected and processed safely.
Used Tyres
Tyre waste is a significant environmental concern. EPR registration is mandatory for:
- Tyre manufacturers and importers
- Vehicle manufacturers and automobile sellers
- Retreaders and transport companies generating bulk tyre waste
EPR-compliant tyre recycling includes pyrolysis, crumb rubber recovery, refurbishing, and reuse in road construction. Without proper compliance, tyres often end up in landfills or are illegally burned, causing serious pollution.
Electronic Waste (E-Waste)
E-waste encompasses discarded electronics such as mobile phones, laptops, computers, TVs, printers, networking equipment, and household appliances.
Companies needing EPR for e-waste include:
- Electronics manufacturers and importers
- Brands selling gadgets online
- E-commerce platforms dealing in electronics
Importers shall also obtain an EPR Certificate for Import in Delhi or the relevant state to facilitate customs clearance and regulatory compliance. Authorized collection centres, dismantlers, and recyclers handle the safe recovery of metals, plastics, and reusable components.
Waste Oil
Used oil is produced by:
- Automobile service centres
- Industrial machinery operators
- Manufacturing units
- Heavy equipment operators
- Generator users
EPR registration ensures that waste oil is collected, re-refined, or safely disposed of, preventing contamination of soil, water, and air.
Who Shall Obtain an EPR Registration Certificate in India?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations in India apply to a wide range of businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, branding, and distribution. Companies in these categories are legally required to secure an EPR Registration Certificate to comply with environmental norms.
Manufacturers
Businesses producing electronics, plastics, batteries, tyres, or oil-based machinery are required to register under EPR. This includes:
- Electronic device manufacturers
- Plastic product manufacturers
- Battery manufacturers
- Tyre manufacturers
- Oil-based machinery producers
Importers
Companies importing any of the following items must obtain an EPR Certification for Import in Delhi or the relevant jurisdiction:
- Electronic goods
- Plastic products or packaged items
- Battery-operated devices
- Tyres
- Oil-based machinery
Customs authorities often require proof of EPR compliance before clearance.
Brand Owners and Marketers
Firms that market products under their own brand name, even if the production is outsourced, are responsible for meeting EPR targets.
E-commerce Platforms
Online marketplaces selling or distributing products that generate regulated waste may also need EPR registration, depending on their role in packaging, distribution, and delivery.
Bulk Consumers
Organizations that generate large volumes of electronic, plastic, battery, tyre, or oil waste are required to comply with EPR regulations to ensure proper collection, recycling, and disposal of the waste.
Why EPR Compliance Is Critical for Businesses
Non-compliance with EPR regulations in India can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Significant financial penalties
- Restrictions or bans on products
- Delays or blockages in import and customs clearance
- Cancellation of business licenses
- Legal actions or notices from the CPCB or SPCBs
Adhering to EPR requirements not only ensures environmental protection but also strengthens brand credibility and supports long-term business sustainability.
ow CertificationsBay Supports EPR Registration in India
CertificationsBay offers comprehensive compliance solutions to help businesses secure EPR certificates across all waste categories, including e-waste, plastic waste, battery waste, used oil, and used tyres.
Our services include:
- Assessing your eligibility for EPR registration
- Preparing and submitting all required documentation
- Drafting detailed EPR plans
- Coordinating with CPCB and SPCBs
- Facilitating partnerships with PROs and certified recyclers
- Managing annual compliance reporting
With expert guidance, businesses can achieve faster approvals, maintain full compliance, and avoid operational delays while adhering to regulatory requirements.
Conclusion
For businesses engaged in manufacturing, importing, or distributing products in India, EPR certification is no longer optional. With multiple waste categories covered under the EPR framework, companies must take proactive steps to secure their EPR registration, manage waste responsibly, and meet mandated recycling targets. Whether it involves electronic waste, plastic packaging, batteries, used oil, or tyres, EPR promotes environmental sustainability and enforces accountability across the industry.
Partnering with compliance experts like CertificationsBay ensures the process is smooth, efficient, and fully aligned with Indian regulations. Reach out to CertificationsBay today to streamline your EPR registration and compliance.
