The Plastic Waste Management Rules, notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, aim to manage the growing challenge of plastic pollution through structured regulation and extended stakeholder responsibility. These rules apply to all stakeholders including producers, importers, brand owners (PIBOs), retailers, consumers, plastic waste processors, and local governing bodies. A key feature is the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which mandates PIBOs to collect, recycle, or dispose of plastic waste generated by their products. These entities must register on the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) online portal and comply with recycling and reuse targets, including the use of recycled content in packaging.

In a significant step, the government banned the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of certain single-use plastic (SUP) items from July 1, 2022, including plastic cutlery, straws, earbuds, and thin plastic wrapping films. Furthermore, plastic carry bags must now be at least 120 microns thick. All plastic packaging must be properly labeled with recycling codes and, if applicable, certified as compostable. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are tasked with ensuring proper collection, segregation, and disposal of plastic waste, while enforcement authorities are empowered to impose penalties under the Environment Protection Act for violations. The rules mark a shift toward a circular economy, encouraging sustainable alternatives and greater industry accountability.

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