Recycling For Electronic Producers

According to the E-waste Management Rules 2016, it has become mandatory for all bulk consumers, manufacturers, and producers of Electrical and Electronic equipment to adhere to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). These guidelines specify that manufacturers must set targets for e-waste collection based on their production volume and ensure that the e-waste is channeled through responsible recyclers.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is the responsibility of any manufacturer of electrical or electronic equipment to manage e-waste by ensuring it is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. EPR can be implemented through a take-back system, where manufacturers establish collection centers and enter into agreements with authorized recyclers either individually or collectively through a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO).

The role of PRO includes:

• Establishing collection centers and operating warehouses in accordance with guidelines issued by the Pollution Control Board.
• Ensure traceability of collected e-waste throughout the channelization and disposal process, including processed and end-of-life waste.
• Conduct awareness programs for bulk consumers and producers on proper collection and channelization of e-waste.
• Assisting producers in filing quarterly/annual returns as per regulatory requirements.
• Ensuring environmentally sound dismantling and recycling processes.