Urgent Compliance Alert: EPR Registration for Plastic Raw Material Stakeholders

Introduction: Plastic EPR Registration India

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has taken another firm step towards plastic waste regulation. On March 14, 2024, it amended the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016, placing new responsibilities on manufacturers, importers, micro & small producers, and sellers of plastic raw materials. This move aims to strengthen the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework and ensure full traceability in the plastic lifecycle. If you fall under any of these categories and haven’t registered on the Plastic EPR Registration India Portal yet time is running out. Let’s unpack the details of this new mandate.

Why This Amendment Matters

The environmental damage caused by plastic waste continues to escalate. While large plastic producers were already obligated to register under EPR, a major loophole existed: raw material manufacturers, importers, and MSME producers were not fully accounted for.

This amendment fixes that. It ensures every actor in the plastic value chain is now traceable and responsible for their part in managing waste.

Who Must Register?

As per the March 2024 amendment, the following entities must register immediately on the Centralized EPR Portal for Plastic Packaging:

Manufacturers of plastic raw materials
Importers of plastic raw materials
Micro and Small Producers (MSMEs)
Sellers of plastic raw materials

There is no exemption for business size or volume. If you deal in plastic raw materials, you must comply.

What Has CPCB Done to Facilitate This?

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has:

Enabled registration on the EPR Plastic Portal for the new categories.
Released an SOP and Guidance Manual, which outlines:
- Application formats
- Required documentation
- Fee structures
- Submission guidelines
- Key compliance timelines

These documents are available directly on the portal and are intended to simplify the registration process.

Compliance Status So Far: Plastic EPR Registration India

Despite the notification and available support, CPCB has observed that many eligible entities—especially MSMEs—have not yet registered. This delay could result in enforcement actions.

Hence, all concerned stakeholders must act now to avoid non-compliance penalties under the PWM Rules.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Entities that fail to register immediately will face:

Show-cause notices
Monetary penalties under Environmental (Protection) Act
Possible suspension of operations
Disqualification from selling or importing plastic raw materials

These actions will be enforced by State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and other competent authorities.

Steps to Register on the EPR Portal

Visit the EPR Plastic Portal.
Download the relevant SOP and Guidance Manual.
Prepare your documents:
- PAN, GST, and company details
- Details of plastic raw material production/import/sale
- Proof of capacity and turnover (if MSME)
Pay the applicable fees.
Submit your application for review and approval.

Make sure to keep screenshots and digital receipts for tracking.

Actionable Advice for Safety and EHS Teams

If you are a Safety Officer or EHS Manager, take immediate steps to:

Check if your company or any vendor is involved in plastic raw material supply or use.
Ensure they are registered on the EPR Portal.
Update SOPs and compliance checklists to include this registration.
Monitor renewal deadlines and upload compliance documents regularly.

Conclusion: Plastic EPR Registration India

This amendment underlines India’s commitment to closing the loop in plastic waste management. It no longer matters whether you’re a big brand or a small MSME—if you deal in plastic raw materials, you’re accountable. Don’t wait for notices or penalties. Register now and join the movement toward sustainable plastic governance.