Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate

Obtain Certification for Manufacturing or Selling Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic with Professional Support from CertificationsBay

Our Service Includes:

  • Complete support for obtaining authorization to manufacture or market biodegradable and compostable plastic

  • Assistance with the preparation and arrangement of required documentation for the certificate

  • Legal guidance to address any queries during the application process

  • Prompt assistance in resolving any challenges related to the certification procedure

Free Expert Consultation

Talk to our Environmental Compliance Expert

Environmental Compliance Expert

Talk to Bharti Sharma, our experienced Environmental Compliance Consultant.

Experienced Consultants

Among India's Top Consulting Firms, delivering excellence in legal and compliance services.

Lowest Fees

CertificationsBay Offers the lowest fees without compromising on service, ensuring affordability for all.

Trusted platform

A trusted platform, renowned for reliability, integrity, and client satisfaction. Rated 5- Stars by 100s of Clients.

Support 24/7

Providing round-the-clock support, because your business success is our priority, every hour of every day.

Introduction

Biodegradable and compostable plastics have become a widely accepted alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastic products in India. To encourage the use of environmentally friendly materials, the government has introduced several regulatory measures. Among them, the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016, along with subsequent amendments, have been instrumental. These regulations require businesses to obtain a Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate to strengthen plastic waste management practices.

According to Rule 3(e) of the PWM Rules, compostable plastic refers to materials that break down through biological processes in composting environments, producing carbon dioxide, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass, similar to other compostable substances. The PWM (Second Amendment) Rules, 2022, define biodegradable plastic as plastics—other than compostable types—that naturally degrade under environmental conditions without leaving harmful, visible, or toxic residues. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) serves as the competent authority responsible for granting the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate under Rule 4(h) of the PWM Rules, 2016, to entities involved in the production or sale of such materials.

The degradation protocols for these plastics follow the Indian Standards specified in Schedule I of the PWM Rules. Furthermore, in accordance with clauses 13(1) and 13(2) of the PWM Rules, 2018, both manufacturers and sellers of compostable plastics must register with the respective State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committee (PCC) before submitting an application to CPCB. Additionally, manufacturers producing biodegradable or compostable plastic packaging must also register as producers under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework to secure the necessary certification.

Requirements for CPCB Certification for Manufacturers

Manufacturers engaged in the production of biodegradable plastic carry bags and related products are required to obtain registration from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) by submitting Form-A under Annexure III along with the necessary documents.

Applicants must provide key information including the plant’s address, postal address, PAN, GST details, and general details of authorized personnel such as name, designation, email, contact number, and Aadhaar number.

Additionally, manufacturers must furnish details of production activities, including the type of raw materials used, any additives, and whether the materials are bio-based or non-bio-based. Supporting documents, such as tax invoices for raw material procurement, are also mandatory for smooth processing of the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate.

A comprehensive overview of the manufacturing process is required, including a detailed flow diagram outlining input materials, process steps, final products, and waste streams. Applicants must also upload photographs or a short video of the manufacturing facility.

The manufacturer must declare complete details of plant machinery used for the production of biodegradable plastics. This includes the name, quantity, capacity, and power rating of each machine, along with the sanctioned power load of the facility. These details must correspond with the information provided in Section 3 (A, B, C & E) of the application.

Important:
If the manufacturing facility does not hold a valid registration from the respective State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committee (PCC), the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate will be issued with the condition that manufacturing or sale of biodegradable products can only commence after securing the SPCB/PCC registration. The manufacturer must submit this registration to CPCB within three months of the certificate issuance. Failure to do so will result in automatic cancellation of the certificate.

Requirements for CPCB Certification for Sellers

Sellers of compostable plastic bags and products seeking CPCB registration must apply using Form-B. The application must include product details such as the name, quantity, and the certified manufacturer’s name and address from whom the products are sourced.

To obtain the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate, sellers must meet the following compliance requirements:

  • Adherence to Rules 4(h) and 11(c) of the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2018, under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.

  • Compliance with any additional conditions or guidelines introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) from time to time.

  • Submission of half-yearly reports detailing the procurement of compostable plastic bags from registered manufacturers, along with sales figures for these products in the prescribed format.

  • Ensuring that all compostable plastic carry bags bear clear markings stating “Compostable” or “Compostable Plastic” in both English and the regional language. The bags must also display the seller’s name, code, and certificate number as printed information.

  • Sellers must provide Aadhaar details, supporting identification documents, and complete business information, including unit address, GST number, PAN, Import Export Code (IEC), where applicable.

  • Detailed procurement records indicating the name and address of the certified manufacturer supplying the compostable plastic products must be submitted.

Note:
The issuance of the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate for sellers is carried out in accordance with the current Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) of CPCB. If any revisions to the SOP are issued after the certificate has been granted, the seller’s application will be reassessed based on the updated guidelines. Such reassessment must be completed within three months.

Documents Required for Manufacturers of Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Products

Manufacturers applying for the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate must submit the following documents as part of their application process:

  • Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration of the company

  • Aadhaar card of the authorized signatory

  • Detailed process flow diagram of the manufacturing process

  • Valid Consent to Establish and Consent to Operate (NOC) under the Air and Water Acts issued by the respective State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committee (PCC)

  • Registration certificate issued by the concerned SPCB/PCC under Rule 13(i) of the PWM Rules, 2018, for manufacturing biodegradable carry bags, commodities, or both

  • Geo-tagged photographs of the storage area, raw materials, production area, and dispatch section

  • Geo-tagged images of installed plant machinery

  • Copy of the latest electricity bill for the manufacturing unit

  • Proof of installation of pollution control devices or pollution mitigation measures

  • Procurement documents evidencing the purchase of raw materials used in the manufacturing process

  • Valid test reports conforming to Indian Standard IS/ISO 17899:2022, conducted at CIPET or laboratories recognized under the Laboratory Recognition Scheme, 2020, of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or accredited by NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories)

Required Documents for Sellers of Compostable and Biodegradable Plastic Products

Sellers seeking the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate must provide the following documents to the CPCB:

  • Duly filled Form B

  • Authorization letter issued by the certified manufacturer to the seller

  • Undertaking by the seller on ₹100 stamp paper confirming compliance with applicable rules

If the seller does not currently hold registration, the certificate will be granted with the condition that the seller may only begin selling compostable plastic products after securing valid registration. This registration must be submitted to CPCB within three months of certificate issuance. Separate CPCB certificates are issued to both manufacturers and sellers involved in the supply chain.

Note: CPCB operates a monitoring mechanism under which sellers are required to submit half-yearly reports on the procurement and sale of compostable plastic products to the relevant SPCB or PCC. Additionally, market inspections are conducted to ensure the availability of compostable plastic bags to consumers. Failure to meet the compliance conditions may result in suspension or cancellation of the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate by CPCB.

Steps for CPCB Registration: Compostable Plastic Manufacturer and Seller Certification

Application Submission
To initiate the process of obtaining the Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate, applicants must complete and submit the prescribed forms along with all required documentation to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Document Review
Upon receipt, the CPCB carefully reviews the application. If any discrepancies, missing information, or clarifications are needed, the applicant will be notified within seven working days to address these issues.

Certificate Issuance or Rejection
A provisional certificate may be granted based on interim test reports provided during ongoing laboratory assessments. However, applications containing false, misleading, or irrelevant information or documents will be rejected outright.

Book a Free Consultation

Market Outlook for Biodegradable and Compostable Plastics

Rising environmental awareness among consumers regarding the detrimental impacts of plastic waste is driving significant growth in the compostable plastics market. Following the nationwide ban on single-use plastics effective from July 1st, demand for compostable plastic products is expected to increase sharply.

In 2021, starch-based biodegradable plastics accounted for the largest market segment, holding over 40% of the revenue share. These starch-based alternatives continue to dominate both in terms of value and volume and find extensive use in packaging, automotive, and agricultural sectors.

Polylactic acid (PLA) products are also gaining rapid traction due to their relatively lower cost compared to other bioplastics. The expanding use of biodegradable plastics in packaging and agriculture further supports this growth. Moreover, consumers have shown willingness to pay a premium for eco-friendly products, reinforcing the importance of securing Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificates for manufacturers and sellers.

How CertificationsBay Supports Your Certification Journey

Comprehensive Legal Support
CertificationsBay provides end-to-end assistance for all regulatory requirements related to Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certification. Our experienced team offers expert guidance to help you navigate the legal framework required to launch or expand your compostable plastic business.

Complete Advisory Services
Understanding the value of time and resources, our professionals streamline the entire registration process, liaising efficiently with CPCB, SPCB, and PCC authorities. This integrated approach ensures a smooth and timely certification experience.

Accurate and Timely Communication
With extensive expertise in compliance and procedural regulations for emerging industries, CertificationsBay ensures clear, proactive, and effective communication throughout the certification process, keeping you informed at every step.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is a Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate?
A Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate is an official authorization issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) that permits manufacturers and sellers to produce and market plastics that degrade naturally without harming the environment.

Q2: Who needs to obtain this certificate?
Both manufacturers producing biodegradable or compostable plastic products and sellers distributing these products are required to obtain this certification to comply with the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.

Q3: What are the key benefits of having this certification?
The certificate ensures regulatory compliance, enhances brand credibility, promotes eco-friendly business practices, and allows lawful manufacturing and sale of biodegradable and compostable plastics.

Q4: How long does the certification process take?
The timeline varies depending on the completeness of the application and document verification. Typically, the process can take a few weeks to a couple of months.

Q5: What happens if I submit false information during the application?
Submitting incorrect or misleading information can lead to outright rejection of the application or cancellation of an already issued certificate.

Q6: Are there ongoing compliance requirements after certification?
Yes, certificate holders must submit periodic reports on production and sales, maintain compliance with applicable rules, and cooperate with CPCB monitoring activities.

Ready to Get Your Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Certificate?

Partner with CertificationsBay for expert guidance through every step of the certification process. Ensure your business complies with all environmental regulations while contributing to a sustainable future.

Contact us today to begin your application or to learn more about our comprehensive certification services.

Why CertificationsBay?

We streamline Corporate and Legal Compliances. 

Get Started Now.

Choose from 100s of our services. We provide all Corporate and Legal Services (CLS) and help business align with regulatory requirements.

NewsLetter

Subscribe to our NewsLetter & Transform your Business. Keep yourself updated with latest regulations.