“CPCB TO ENFORCE STRICTER PENALTIES ON E-WASTE VIOLATIONS”

Why in the news?

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is initiating audits and imposing penalties on companies failing to comply with e-waste recycling regulations under the 2024 rules.

NCSC CHAIRPERSON YET TO DECIDE ON SC SUB-CATEGORISATIONsource:scribd

CPCB’s Upcoming Audits:

  • The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is set to audit companies across various sectors over the next month and a half to ensure compliance with e-waste recycling
  • The audits will focus on adherence to standard operating procedures for e-waste management, with penalties imposed on violators as environmental compensation (EC).
  • The EC collected will be used to finance environmental protection efforts, with the CPCB determining the penalty range based on industry categories.

E-Waste Management Rules 2024:

  • The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2024, empower the CPCB to monitor and penalise companies that breach e-waste regulations.
  • The rules introduced the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) certificates, requiring manufacturers to either recycle their products or purchase certificates as proof of compliance.
  • The new regime emphasises not just collection and recycling but also the measurement and reporting of metal extraction from recycled e-waste.
E-Waste (Management) Amendment Rules, 2024: Major Provisions

Relaxation of Timelines:

  • Filing Returns/Reports: Manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, or recyclers are granted a relaxation period for filing returns or reports. This period can extend up to nine months.

Establishment of EPR Certificate Platforms:

  • Central Government Authority: The Central Government has the authority to establish one or more platforms for the exchange or transfer of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) certificates.

Regulation of EPR Certificate Prices:

  • Price Range: The exchange price for EPR certificates must fall between the highest and lowest prices as determined by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

About Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):

Statutory Organization:

  • Constitution: Established in September 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
  • Empowered by: Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
  • Technical Services: Provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/remoulding-the-global-plastics-treaty/