Micro and small plastic packaging producers in India have appealed to the central government for exemption from the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulatory regime. The producers argue that the EPR regime is too complex and burdensome for them to comply with, and that it threatens the survival of their businesses and the jobs of over 20 lakh people.
The EPR regime was introduced in the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. It requires producers, importers, and brand owners of plastic packaging to ensure that their waste is recycled or disposed of properly. The regime is designed to reduce plastic pollution and to promote a circular economy.
The micro and small plastic packaging producers argue that the EPR regime is too complex for them to comply with. They say that they lack the resources to collect and manage their waste, and that they are not able to access the necessary recycling infrastructure. They also argue that the EPR regime is unfair, as it places a disproportionate burden on small businesses.
The producers have appealed to the central government to exempt them from the EPR regime. They say that this is necessary to protect their businesses and the jobs of their employees. They also say that it is important to ensure that the EPR regime does not have a negative impact on the availability of affordable plastic packaging.
The central government has not yet responded to the producers’ appeal. However, the government has said that it is committed to reducing plastic pollution. It is possible that the government will consider exempting micro and small plastic packaging producers from the EPR regime in order to achieve this goal.
The EPR regime is a complex issue with no easy answers. It is important to balance the need to reduce plastic pollution with the need to protect businesses and jobs. The central government will need to carefully consider the arguments of the micro and small plastic packaging producers before making a decision on whether or not to exempt them from the EPR regime.
In addition to the arguments made by the micro and small plastic packaging producers, there are other factors that the central government may need to consider when making its decision. For example, the government may need to consider the impact of the EPR regime on the environment, and the availability of alternative materials to plastic packaging.
The central government’s decision on whether or not to exempt micro and small plastic packaging producers from the EPR regime will have a significant impact on the plastic packaging industry in India. The decision will also have a wider impact on the environment and the economy.