• UGI USER
  • Jul 26, 2024
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WHITE CATEGORY INDUSTRIES EXEMPT FROM POLLUTION CONTROL PERMITS

Why in the news?

White category industries are now exempt from obtaining prior pollution control permits under new draft notifications by the Environment Ministry.

source:slideshare

Key Changes in Pollution Control Permits:

  • White category industries no longer need prior permission from state pollution control boards to establish and operate.
  • Exemptions apply under the Air Act, 1981, and Water Act, 1974, per new draft notifications by the Environment Ministry.
  • CTE (Consent to Establish) and CTO (Consent to Operate) permits are now unnecessary for these sectors.
What are White Category Industries?

  • Practically non-polluting, newly categorised
  • Includes industries like wind and solar power projects, air cooler assembly, and bicycle assembly.
  • Categorised as practically non-polluting by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2016.
  • Industries with a Pollution Index score of up to 20 fall under this category.

Examples:

  • Scientific and mathematical instruments manufacturing.
  • Solar power generation (photovoltaic cells).
  • Wind power.
  • Mini hydel power plants (<25 MW).
  • Electric lamp and CFL assembly.
  • Cotton and wooden hosiery (no dyeing/washing).
  • Biscuit tray units.
  • No green clearance needed.
  • Easier finance from lending institutions.