In India, key plastic pollution laws include the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and subsequent amendments, focusing on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), banning single-use plastics, and mandating waste segregation and recycling.

 In India, key plastic pollution laws include the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and subsequent amendments, focusing on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), banning single-use plastics, and mandating waste segregation and recycling. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Key Laws and Regulations:

Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016:

This is the foundational rule that sets the framework for plastic waste management in India, including provisions for EPR, recycling, and waste disposal. 

Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021:

This amendment increased the minimum thickness requirement for plastic carry bags (from 50 to 75 and then 120 microns) to reduce littering and promote reuse. 

Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2022:

This amendment further strengthens the EPR framework, mandating producers, importers, and brand owners to collect and manage plastic waste generated due to the consumption of their products. 

Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2024:

This amendment defines biodegradable plastics as materials that not only degrade by biological processes but also do not leave microplastics. 

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR):

The rules mandate that producers, importers, and brand owners are responsible for collecting and managing plastic waste generated by their products, promoting a circular economy. 

Prohibition of Single-Use Plastics:

The rules prohibit the manufacture, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of certain single-use plastics, including polystyrene and expanded polystyrene items like ear buds, plastic sticks, and certain types of plates, cups, and cutlery. 

Mandatory Segregation of Waste:

The rules emphasize the importance of segregating plastic waste at the source to facilitate recycling and proper disposal. 

Recycling and Reuse:

The rules promote the recycling and reuse of plastic materials, with provisions for ensuring that recycled plastics meet specific standards. 

Registration of PIBOs and PWPs:

Producers, Importers and Brand Owners (PIBOs) and Plastic Waste Management Processors (PWPs) are required to register on a centralized portal developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). 

Environmental Compensation:

Environmental compensation will be levied based on the polluter pays principle, with respect to non-fulfillment of Extended Producer Responsibility targets by Producers, Importers & Brand Owners. 

Key Provisions and Responsibilities:

Urban Local Bodies:

They are responsible for developing and setting up infrastructure for plastic waste management, including segregation, collection, storage, transportation, processing, and disposal. 

Producers, Importers, and Brand Owners:

They are responsible for managing the plastic waste generated by their products through EPR mechanisms. 

Retailers and Street Vendors:

They are responsible for ensuring that they do not sell or provide commodities in carry bags or plastic sheets that are not manufactured and labeled according to the rules. 

Waste Generators:

They are responsible for minimizing plastic waste, segregating it, and handing it over to the local body or authorized agencies.