CPCB aligns semiconductor industrial sector classification - Legal Update

Introduction

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has recently enacted the standardization of the semiconductor industrial sector classification into Red, Orange, Green, and White Categories. This move is part of a broader effort to streamline environmental regulations and ensure better monitoring of pollution levels across various industrial activities.

In addition to the semiconductor industry, the CPCB has expanded its classification system to include nine additional industrial sectors. These sectors encompass Scrapping Centers, Used Cooking Oil Collection Centers, Compressed/Refined Biogas, Railway Stations, Dairy Farms, Gaushalas, Building and Construction Projects with a built-up area of up to 20,000 m² and wastewater generation of 50 KLD, Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Processing Plants, and Gold Assaying & Hallmarking Centres. This comprehensive classification aims to cover a wide range of industries that have significant environmental impacts, ensuring that each sector adheres to appropriate pollution control measures.

The decision to categorize these industrial sectors was made during the CPCB Committee meeting on August 7, 2023. The committee’s objective is to provide clear guidelines for industries to follow, thereby reducing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable practices. The classification into Red, Orange, Green, and White Categories helps in identifying the pollution potential of each sector, with Red being the most polluting and White being the least.

Detailed information about the classification of the semiconductor industrial sector can be found in Annexure-1 attached to the official document. This annexure provides specific guidelines and criteria for classification, helping industries understand their obligations and compliance requirements.

Conclusion

All State Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control Committees are instructed to implement the categorization for Semiconductor Manufacturing Industries and submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within 15 days.

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