Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) a mandatory approval for producers, importers, and brand owners in India. In today’s world, where waste management has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges, the Indian government has introduced strict regulations to ensure that companies take accountability for the products they bring into the market. EPR is not just a compliance requirement; it is a framework that pushes organisations towards sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
This policy is particularly important in India, where E-waste, plastic waste, batteries, and tyres contribute significantly to pollution and landfill burden. By holding businesses responsible, EPR promotes a circular economy, reduces environmental impact, and encourages producers to design products that are easier to recycle or reuse.
Why is EPR Certification Important?
EPR certification is not optional—it is a legal requirement under Indian law. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), is the main authority that issues EPR authorisations. Without this license, manufacturers and importers cannot legally sell or import products such as electronics, batteries, plastics, or tyres into India.
The importance of EPR goes beyond compliance. It demonstrates a brand’s commitment to sustainability, improves reputation among consumers, and ensures smoother operations in domestic as well as international markets. Many global corporations today prefer to do business with environmentally responsible companies, making EPR certification an essential step for growth.
Categories of EPR Certification
Different industries in India fall under the EPR regime. At Ornate Certification, we provide complete support for all categories:
- EPR for Electronic Products and E-Waste
The E-Waste Management Rules, 2016 (and amendments of 2022) mandate EPR authorisation for producers and importers of electronic and electrical equipment. Companies must ensure proper recycling, reuse, or safe disposal of their products. They are also required to tie up with authorised recyclers and collection centres, ensuring that e-waste does not end up in landfills. - EPR for Plastic Packaging
The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, introduced EPR for producers, importers, and brand owners of plastic packaging. Businesses must set up systems for the collection and recycling of plastic waste. This includes multi-layered packaging materials that are otherwise difficult to recycle. The EPR Plastic Portal of CPCB allows online registration and compliance tracking for plastic packaging waste. - EPR for Batteries
Battery waste is hazardous and poses a high risk to human health and the environment. The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, make it mandatory for producers of batteries, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, and nickel-cadmium batteries, to obtain EPR authorisation. Producers must also report regularly on the quantity of batteries manufactured or imported, and the amount collected and recycled through authorised recyclers - EPR for Tyres
In July 2022, the MoEFCC amended the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016, to include tyres under EPR obligations. Producers and recyclers of tyres must register, achieve EPR targets, and submit compliance reports. This is a step forward in managing the growing problem of waste tyres in India.
Benefits of EPR Certification in India
Obtaining an EPR certificate comes with multiple benefits:
- Regulatory Compliance :You remain compliant with Indian environmental laws, avoiding penalties, shipment delays, and business interruptions.
- Brand Reputation :Companies with EPR certification are recognised as socially responsible and eco-conscious, which enhances goodwill among customers and investors.
- Market Access :Both domestic and international markets are increasingly demanding eco-friendly practices. EPR certification helps companies maintain smooth trade relationships.
- Sustainability Goals :By following EPR obligations, your business contributes directly to India’s sustainability and circular economy targets.
- Risk Mitigation :Proper waste management reduces long-term environmental liabilities and legal risks.
Documents Required for EPR Certification
The EPR application requires comprehensive documentation to prove compliance and preparedness. Some of the essential documents include:
- PAN card and GST certificate of the company
- Import Export Code (IEC) for importers
- Certificate of Incorporation or legal entity proof
- Details of authorised signatory (Aadhaar or Passport)
- Product details, including category, model numbers, and packaging images
- Agreements with authorised recyclers, collection centres, or PROs (Producer Responsibility Organisations)
- EPR plan with targets and collection strategies
- Details of RoHS compliance, if applicable
At Ornate Certification, we assist in preparing, reviewing, and submitting all these documents in line with CPCB guidelines, ensuring a smooth process.
Step-by-Step Process of EPR Certification
At Ornate Certification, we ensure that the process is simple and time-bound. Here’s how it works:
- Step 1- Eligibility Review – First, we identify whether your business falls under EPR obligations, depending on the type of products you manufacture or import.
- Step 2- Document Preparation – We gather and compile all necessary documents, including agreements with recyclers and your EPR waste management plan.
- Step 3- Online Application – Applications are submitted online through the CPCB’s designated EPR portals.
- Step 4- Fee Submission – Depending on the category and turnover of the applicant, the applicable fee must be paid.
- Step 5- Application Review – CPCB or the State Pollution Control Board reviews your application. If discrepancies are found, clarifications are sought.
- Step 6- Issue Certificate – Once approved, the EPR Certificate or Authorisation is issued, allowing your business to operate legally.
The validity of EPR certificates generally ranges between one year for plastics and up to five years for electronic products. Renewal applications must be filed before expiry to ensure uninterrupted compliance.
WiFi Router
Wireless Mouse
Wireless Speakers
Bluetooth Headphones
WiFi Smart Watch
Wireless Pendrive
Wireless Nano USB
Wireless Keyboard
Hotspot Devices
Smart Home Gateway
Wireless Terminal
Wireless POS Terminal
Tyres
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
1. Is EPR mandatory in India?
Yes, EPR is mandatory for some products in India. For more details, you can contact us.
2. What is E-Waste?
E-waste refers to electronic products nearing the end of their "useful life", for example, computers, televisions, VCRs, stereos, copiers, and fax machines. Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled.
3. How do I get EPR?
If you want EPR License urgently, gets in touch with our EPR Experts now.
4. Is EPR effective?
EPR policies helped a lot in increasing the recycling activities and shown a positive effect on decreasing pollution. It has started showing positive effects throughout the country.
5. How do I get rid of electronical appliances?
Repair. Reuse. Recycle
