Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a strategic policy approach that places the responsibility for the entire lifecycle of a product—especially its post-consumer stage—on the producer. EPR compels manufacturers, importers, and brand owners to manage the collection, recycling, and environmentally responsible disposal of their products and packaging after consumer use. By shifting the cost and accountability of waste management from local governments to producers, EPR encourages the design of products that are more sustainable, resource-efficient, and easier to recycle, thus supporting a circular economy and reducing environmental impact.
EPR is not only a regulatory requirement but also a catalyst for innovation, driving companies to create products that align with global sustainability goals and consumer expectations for responsible business practices.
Stakeholders Involved
EPR is a collaborative framework that brings together multiple stakeholders, each playing a critical role in ensuring effective waste management and compliance:
- Producers/Brand Owners: Responsible for compliance, product design, and funding end-of-life management
- Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs): Specialized third-party entities that manage collection, recycling, and reporting on behalf of producers
- Regulatory Authorities: Government bodies such as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) that set guidelines, monitor compliance, and enforce regulations
- Waste Management Companies: Execute the collection, segregation, recycling, and safe disposal of waste
- Consumers: Participate by returning used products and adopting responsible disposal practices
- Retailers/Distributors: Facilitate take-back programs and raise consumer awareness
- Informal Sector: In some regions, waste pickers and informal collectors play a significant role in recycling and should be integrated into EPR systems