The plastic industry in India has grown rapidly over the past few decades. It supports packaging, construction, automotive, agriculture, and countless other sectors. But with this growth comes responsibility—especially when it comes to following environmental and safety regulations.
Many companies in the plastic sector, whether small manufacturers or large-scale producers, often run into trouble not because they mean to break the law, but because they don’t fully understand what’s required. This blog takes you through the most common regulatory violations in the plastic industry and how to avoid them. We’ve kept it simple and clear—just how it should be.
The Silent Risks: Common Violations Most Manufacturers Miss
Every plastic business owner wants smooth operations. But sometimes, even without knowing it, you might be walking into serious legal and environmental trouble. Here are a few examples.
1. Operating Without Proper Plastic Waste Authorization
One of the most frequent issues is running a plastic manufacturing or recycling unit without valid authorization from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB). Under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (amended in 2022), all plastic manufacturers, recyclers, and processors must register with the Central or State Pollution Control Board.
But many skip this or delay renewals, assuming it doesn’t matter. The truth is: operating without it can result in hefty fines, shutdown notices, and even legal action.
2. Non-compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
The term Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is crucial today. It means that producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) are responsible for collecting and recycling the plastic they introduce into the market.
Many small and mid-sized businesses think EPR is only for big brands. That’s a myth. Even small units are required to follow EPR guidelines, get EPR registration through the CPCB online portal, and file regular compliance reports.
Failure to meet EPR targets or incorrect reporting can attract penalties and even cancellation of your registration.
3. Incorrect Plastic Labeling and Marking
All plastic carry bags, multilayered packaging, and products must carry proper labeling like the type of plastic resin used (such as LDPE, HDPE, PP, etc.), the manufacturer’s name, and license number.
Skipping this step may seem harmless, but it is a direct violation of labeling norms under the Plastic Waste Management Rules. Inspecting authorities often penalize units for incorrect or missing markings.
4. Using Banned Plastics
Despite clear regulations, several units continue using banned plastic items like thin carry bags (below 50 microns), multilayered packaging without recyclability, or single-use plastic items.
With the recent ban on single-use plastics enforced across India, any use, storage, or production of these items can result in immediate seizure of goods and penalties under the Environment Protection Act.
5. Lack of Proper Waste Management within Premises
Factories that generate, store, or recycle plastic waste are supposed to manage it scientifically. This includes safe collection, segregation, and storage with clear documentation and logs.
However, in many units, plastic scrap is just dumped in corners or open spaces, posing fire risks and environmental hazards. It not only violates the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules but also invites surprise inspections and legal complications.
How to Stay Compliant and Safe
Avoiding these violations is not difficult. It just requires awareness and commitment to following the rules. Here’s how your business can stay in the clear.
1. Get Registered and Keep It Updated
Always ensure that your SPCB or CPCB registration is valid. Set reminders for renewal. If you’re dealing with multiple state operations, check if you need multiple authorizations.
Use the CPCB EPR portal for online registration and compliance filings.
2. Understand the EPR Framework for Your Business
If you’re a producer, brand owner, or importer, get your EPR plan approved and executed through a certified waste management agency. Keep documentation ready. File your annual returns as required.
Use digital tools to track how much plastic you put in the market and how much you collect back.
3. Label Your Products Properly
Ensure your production unit labels all products with the correct recycling codes and your unit’s details. This helps both customers and recycling units in proper disposal.
It’s a small step that shows your brand’s responsibility.
4. Avoid Banned Items Entirely
Stay updated with the list of banned plastic items. Government notifications change from time to time. Work with legal consultants or industry bodies to ensure your product line does not include any restricted material.
Also, educate your staff and suppliers so they don’t introduce banned stock into your chain.
5. Implement On-site Waste Management Practices
Store plastic waste in a designated area. Ensure fire safety. Train your staff on handling procedures. Keep records of waste generation and disposal.
Tie-up with registered recyclers or plastic waste processors so you have traceable disposal data ready for inspections.
Why Following Regulations is a Win-Win
Being compliant is not just about avoiding fines. It builds trust with your customers, helps you win certifications, and ensures business continuity. In a time when green manufacturing is becoming essential, compliance gives you an edge in the market.
It also opens up export opportunities, where regulatory certifications are non-negotiable.
Planning Ahead: Your Key to Stress-Free Compliance
Regulatory compliance in the plastic industry doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and consistent effort, it becomes a part of your routine operations. As the plastic industry grows and adapts to environmental challenges, those who stay ahead of regulations will always be the ones who thrive.
At Creative Ecotech, we work closely with businesses to help them stay compliant, reduce environmental impact, and grow sustainably.
We are located in Salt Lake, Sector 5, Kolkata, and you can reach us at 033-40010135 for any guidance on plastic waste management, EPR compliance, and sustainable plastic practices.
Let’s build a cleaner and more responsible future—one regulation at a time.
