EPR Certificate:- Registration Process, Documents, Fees.
EPR full form for plastic signifies extended producer responsibility for plastic products. The system is designed to curb plastic waste under the plastic waste management system of the central pollution control board. As per rules of plastic waste management (PWM) the importer of plastic packaging or any product with plastic packaging are required to obtain EPR registration for their products.
However as per the guidelines of CPCB. Importers are only obliged to meet their EPR target and get an EPR certificate if they fall into the following criteria.
⇒If the products are sold under the name of IMPORTED
⇒If Importers are selling products in the name of their own brand
⇒If the product is being sold in the name of original brand owner who is not based in India, either by the importer or 3rd party seller
Importers are required to obtain their EPR Authorization from CPCB in case they operate in more than 2 states and union territories. In case of Importers operating in 1-2 states or UTs then they should get EPR Certification from SPCBs and PCCs of respective states online.
Online EPR Registration:- An overview for Importer of plastic products
| EPR Registration for importers | Details |
| EPR Registration fees for importer (Govt) |
Plastic waste generation in (TPA)
|
| Renewal and Validity | New registration is valid for 1 year and renewed EPR certificate shall be valid for 3 years |
| Renewal Fee for online EPR certification | The renewal fee for EPR certification is same as certification fee |
| Fee for filing EPR annual Returns (Govt) | 25% of EPR application fees |
| Mode of Application for EPR Authorization | Online Application |
What is EPR Authorization?
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EPR Authorization refers to the process through which importers, producers or manufacturers of plastic goods comply with EPR regulations set by the central pollution control board. It involves the formal EPR registration of a company as a responsible importer, producer, indicating their commitment to managing and reducing the environmental impact of their products throughout their life cycle.
Importance of CPCB EPR Authorization for Importer
EPR Authorization plays an important role in promoting sustainable waste management practices. It encourages businesses to take responsibility for their products, including their packaging, post-consumer waste. By registering for EPR, businesses demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability, fostering a positive image among consumers, investors, and regulatory authorities.
Classification of plastic under CPCB
Plastic products are categorized by the central pollution control board of India for EPR.
- Rigid Plastic: Rigid plastic refers to a type of plastic material that is stiff and does not easily bend or deform under normal conditions. Rigid plastic is commonly used in various products such as bottles, containers, toys, and automotive parts.
- Flexible Plastic Packaging: Flexible plastic packaging is a type of packaging material made from thin, pliable plastic films or sheets. It is commonly used for packaging food items, beverages, personal care products, and household goods.
- Multi Layered Plastic Packaging: Multilayered plastic packaging consists of multiple layers of different plastic materials that are combined to enhance the performance and properties of the packaging. It is commonly used for packaging food, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive items that require specific preservation conditions.
- Compostable Plastic: Compostable plastic is a type of plastic material that has the ability to break down and decompose into organic matter under specific composting conditions. Compostable plastics are often used for single-use items like bags, utensils, and packaging, with the aim of reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability.
If you are an importer of any of these products then you must acquire EPR authorization to manage the plastic waste generation by your imports. Having an EPR authorization for importers of such products is an obligatory legal compliance.
Note: In case of waste plastic being used for the construction of roads, applicants are required to produce a self-declaration certificate in proforma developed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Documents required for EPR Authorization for Importers
- PAN Card GST Certificate
- CIN of company
- IEC Certificate for importer
- Partnership deed in case if partnership firm
Note:- In case importer qualifies as brand owner or producer of goods then they are required to file separate new applications for EPR authorization in those respective categories.
EPR Authorization Fees for Importers
The fee for EPR authorization for importers is defined on the basis of waste generated in tonnes per annum.
| Plastic Waste Generated in TPA | Cost of EPR Application (Govt) |
| Less than 1000 | Rs 10,000 |
| Between 1000-10000 | Rs 20,000 |
| More than 10000 | Rs 50,000 |
Note: The aformentioned Fees is exclusive of GST.
Process of EPR Authorization for Importers
EPR Authorization process for acquiring authorisation from CPCB as an importer of plastic products are classified under four parts.
Applicants are required to provide above mentioned details as well as required documents as per the guidelines of plastic waste management for PIBOs.
Note: Once the application is successfully filled with CPCB or respective SPCP/PCCs it will take around 15 days for authorities to commence.
Criteria for the issuance of EPR target completion certificate
Once the importer of plastic products has successfully registered themselves with CPCB or SPCBs. They are required to implement an EPR action plan to meet their EPR target for the given year.
As per the guidelines PIBOs / importers are required to meet their EPR obligations by ensuring that plastic waste is processed through EPR registered "plastic waste processors". Importers must obtain certificates from PWPs (Plastic waste processors) as per the quantity of waste processed by PWPs.
Benefits of EPR Authorization
Environmental Conservation: EPR authorization ensures that businesses actively participate in reducing waste, promoting recycling, and minimizing the use of hazardous substances in their products. This contributes to conserving natural resources and preserving the environment for future generations.
Cost Savings: Through EPR authorization, businesses gain access to recycling infrastructure and networks, which can help reduce waste management costs. By implementing efficient waste management practices, companies can optimize resource utilization and streamline their operations.
Legal Compliance: EPR authorization ensures compliance with government regulations and avoids penalties or legal consequences. By fulfilling their EPR obligations, businesses maintain a positive relationship with regulatory bodies and safeguard their reputation.
Enhanced Brand Image: EPR authorization showcases a company's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. This can significantly enhance the brand image, attract environmentally conscious consumers, and differentiate the business from competitors.
Rejection/Cancellation of EPR License
The EPR certification can be canceled by their respective authorities on the basis of the following:-
- In the case of false information and document given to authorities and the application fee will be fortified
- If Importers are found in violation of plastic waste management (PWMs) rules 2016
- PIBOs /importer shall not deal with any unauthorized or unregistered entities
- The PIBO must fulfill the year-wise and category-wise EPR Target as specified in the registration certificate for the year in which EPR registration is granted.
Key Takeaways
⇒ Importers can not deal with unregistered entities
⇒ Renewal will be granted within 15 days of filling an application
⇒ If the registration is rejected then the application fee will be fortified by the authorities
⇒ Importers have to ensure annual report are filled before june 30 of the following year
⇒ Environment compensation shall be levied in case of unfulfillment of EPR target