Overview on EPR Authorization for E-waste

EPR stands for Extended Producers Responsibility, a government policy that assigns producers the crucial responsibility for treating and disposing of consumer goods. EPR authorization is mandatory for producers, importers, manufacturers, and brand owners.

EPR integrates environmental, economic, and social factors to ensure proper waste management. This policy ensures that producers take financial and physical responsibility for handling and disposing of post-consumer items.

By enforcing this responsibility, the policy encourages waste reduction at the source, promotes environmentally friendly product design, and supports public recycling and waste management efforts.

The OECD is expanding EPR to include more products, product groups, and waste streams, including electrical appliances and electronic products.

Who Can Apply for an EPR License?

The following entities can apply for an EPR license in India:

1. Producers
2. Importers
3. Brand Owners
4. Manufacturers

Authorization for EPR in E-Waste Management

EPR authorization for E-waste management ensures compliance with environmental guidelines. Under Rule 13 (1) of the E-Waste Management Rules, 2016, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is responsible for granting, renewing, or refusing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) authorization.

The CPCB enforces EPR guidelines by directing manufacturers on channelization, recycling, storage, dismantling, and refurbishment of E-waste.

Documents Required

To obtain EPR authorization for E-waste, the following documents are required:
1. KYC of company signatory 

2. KYC of authorized signatory
3. IEC Code
4. Website domain
5. Toll-free number

What is the procedure of Grant/renewal and refusal of EPR Authorization?

The process of granting, renewing, and refusing EPR authorization follows these steps:
1.     Application Submission
Producers, importers, manufacturers, and brand owners must submit their applications to the CPCB.
2.     Application Verification
Within 25 days of receiving the application, the CPCB or State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) verifies and investigates the provided information.
3.     Approval of Authorization
Once the CPCB/SPCB is satisfied with the Extended Producer Responsibility plan and submitted documents, they grant EPR authorization.
4.     Validity of EPR Authorization
The EPR authorization remains valid for five years.

Roles and Responsibilities of EPR in relation to E-waste?

Entities with EPR authorization must fulfill the following responsibilities:

1.Collection and Channelization: Producers are responsible for collecting and channeling waste from products with the same electrical and electronic equipment code.
2.Recycling Framework: Producers must create a system for channeling e-waste from distributors, authorized service centers, and end-of-life products.
3.Hazardous Waste Treatment: Hazardous components like mercury and lead require pre-treatment before disposal.
4.Waste Collection Methods: Producers must facilitate e-waste collection through dealers, collection centers, producer responsibility organizations, buy-back arrangements, exchange schemes, or deposit-refund systems.
5.Public Awareness: Producers must conduct awareness campaigns using media, advertisements, publications, posters, and product-related communication materials.
6.Consumer Support: Producers must provide contact details (address, email ID, toll-free number, helpline) on their website for consumer support.

Benefits of EPR authorization in E-waste licensing

EPR authorization provides several advantages:

1. Encourages Sustainable Product Design – Manufacturers are motivated to design products that last longer and are easier to recycle.
2. Reduces Environmental Impact – By managing e-waste responsibly, pollution caused by hazardous materials is minimized.
3. Financial Relief for Governments – The financial burden of waste disposal shifts from the government to the manufacturers.
4. Improved Recycling Infrastructure – Countries implementing EPR policies develop stronger recycling infrastructure and waste management systems.
5. Global Compliance – With stricter e-waste regulations worldwide, businesses complying with EPR policies can operate smoothly in international markets.