On 6 December, The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India introduced a draft of the Environment Protection (Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging) Rules, 2024. These rules are scheduled to take effect on 1 April 2026.

The goal of this amendment, among other things, is to reduce packaging waste and encourage a circular economy. This does involve following some of the R’s — reuse, recycle, and recover. This regulatory push is likely to create more green jobs, innovations in packaging waste management, and more economic opportunities.

The rules have a renewed focus. They require brand owners, importers, and producers to keep an eye on the life cycle of the packaging materials they use — including paper, metal, sanitary products, and glass. These entities will be held responsible for managing packaging waste sustainably.

Brand owners, importers, and producers will also be required to submit periodic reports on their waste management efforts and compliance with the recycling guidelines. This is to ensure transparency and track the progress of various organisations.