The State Pollution Control Board of Sikkim, under the aegis of the Forest & Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, has issued a final and urgent notice to all industries and MSME units operating within the state regarding compliance with the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules.
In accordance with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework delineated in the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016, industries involved in plastic packaging production, utilization, or generating any form of plastic waste are obligated to register. Despite prior notifications, numerous entities have failed to adhere to these regulations.
On March 18, 2024, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Government of India, issued a mandatory directive under Section 5 of the Environment Protection Act, 1986. This directive mandates 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, encompassing Recyclers, Co-Processors, Waste to Energy, Waste to Oil, and Industrial Composting units. Non-compliance will result in stringent legal actions initiated by the Board.
In response to this imperative directive, the State Pollution Control Board of Sikkim underscores the urgent necessity for compliance. Industries are strongly urged to expedite their registration to evade legal ramifications.
This notice reaffirms the state’s unwavering commitment to effectual plastic waste management and environmental preservation, urging industries to fulfill their obligations toward sustainable waste management practices promptly.