NGT Directs CPCB: Strictly Ban Import of Plastic Waste

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to strictly implement the ban on the import of plastic waste in the country. Citing that its hazardous nature for the environment, the bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel said local bodies have to encourage the use of plastic waste for road construction or energy recovery or waste to oil and others.

The bench said in a statement, “Every producer or brand owner is required to make an application for registration or for renewal of registration and such registration is done as per checklist issued by the CPCB. Extended producer responsibility is applicable and is required to be followed by producers, importers and brand owners as per applicable guidelines.”

The green panel directed the CPCB to take action for ensuring that its recommendation is fully implemented by all concerned in the implementation of Plastic Waste Management Rules. “The CPCB may furnish a further action taken report in the matter to this tribunal within two months by e-mail,” the bench said.

The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, as amended in 2018 prohibit open burning of plastic waste and permit its recycling only if it conforms to Indian Standard: IS 14534:1998, it said.

The tribunal was hearing a plea filed by Amit Jain alleging that cheap wastepaper and road sweep waste is imported in India from the United States of America, Europe etc. for being burnt in brick kilns, causing land and air pollution. The pleas said, “Large plastic waste yards can be seen near recycled paper mills. Import of cheap wastepaper is hazardous and is affecting the environment. The import is to the extent of 9,00,000 tons of waste which generates hazardous plastic.”

During the hearing, the CPCB informed the tribunal that import of plastic waste is required to be restricted as the hazardous waste generated in the country is to the extent of 26,000 tons a day and the same is not being properly managed. NGT has further posted the matter for hearing on September 6.