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Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2026
Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2026 introduce mandates on recycled content in plastic packaging and modify compliance provisions. The changes shift focus towards reuse, circularity, and enhanced traceability.
Plastic Waste Management Rules:
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Framework | Is governed by Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. |
| Core Provision (2016) | Provides for ban on plastic carry bags below 50 microns, responsibility of local bodies, and introduction of Extended Producer Responsibility. |
| EPR Targets | Provides for recycling targets of 35% in 2021–22, 70% in 2022–23, and 100% by 2024–25 for producers, importers, and brand owners. |
| Objective | Provides for reduction of plastic waste in landfills, rivers, oceans, and public spaces through producer responsibility. |
| Recycled Content Mandate | Provides for mandatory use of recycled plastic in packaging with Category I requiring 30% in 2026–27 rising to 60% by 2028–29. |
| Category-wise Provisions | Comprises Category I rigid plastic with recycled content mandate; Category II flexible plastic with reuse and recycling obligations; Category III multilayered plastic with collection and reuse focus; and Category IV compostable plastic requiring CPCB certification. |
| Reuse Targets | Provides for 70% reuse target for large drinking water containers in 2025–26 rising to 85% subsequently. |
| Compliance Flexibility | Provides for carry-forward of shortfalls for 3 years with requirement to clear at least 33% of deficit annually. |
| EPR Focus Shift | Provides for emphasis on reuse and circularity instead of additional collection targets beyond 2025. |
| Verification Mechanism | Provides for compliance audits by registered environment auditors. |
| Digital Traceability | Provides for mandatory QR codes or barcodes on plastic packaging for verification of origin and recycled content. |
| Exemptions | Provides for exclusion of recycled content mandate in cases restricted under other laws such as food and medical standards. |
| Enforcement Authority | Provides for enforcement by Urban Local Bodies, Gram Panchayats, and District-level Panchayats. |