Northeast Desk, 19th May: The State Pollution Control Board of Sikkim, operating under the Forest & Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, has issued a final notice to all industries and MSME units operating within the state regarding compliance with the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules.
As per the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime outlined in the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016, industries engaged in the production or utilization of plastic packaging, or generating any form of plastic waste, are mandated to register. Despite previous notifications from the Sikkim Pollution Control Board, several entities have failed to adhere to these regulations.
On March 18, 2024, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Government of India, issued a binding directive under Section 5 of the Environment Protection Act, 1986. This directive necessitates registration on the Centralized Extended Producer Responsibility portal for Plastic packaging by March 31, 2024, for all Producers, Importers, Brand-Owners, and Plastic Waste Processors, including Recyclers, Co-Processors, Waste to Energy, Waste to Oil, and Industrial Composting units. Non-compliance will prompt legal action initiated by the Board.
In response to this directive, the State Pollution Control Board of Sikkim emphasizes the critical need for compliance. Industries are urged to register promptly to avoid legal consequences.
This notice underscores the state’s commitment to effective plastic waste management and environmental conservation, urging industries to fulfill their responsibilities towards sustainable waste management practices.
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