Extension for Filing Quarterly and Annual Returns Under E-Waste Management Rules

Introduction to the EPR Notice for Filing Returns Under E-Waste Management Rules

The E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, that are mainly administered by the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) and implemented through the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), mandate registered producers, manufacturers, recyclers, as well as refurbishers to file quarterly and annual returns on the EPR portal. These returns are all the more important for tracking e-waste generation, recycling, as well as absolute fulfilment of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations. Timely submission is a key compliance requirement under the regulatory framework.

Key Changes You Should Know

Based on representations received from industry associations and a formal request conveyed by CPCB through an email dated 04 May 2024, the Ministry has approved an extension for filing returns. Key points include: 

1. The original deadline for filing quarterly and annual returns for FY 2023–24 was 30 April 2024.
2. The deadline has now been extended to 30 June 2024.
3. The extension applies to all registered entities under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.
4. The decision has been taken in accordance with Rule 9A of the E-Waste (Management) Amendment Rules, 2024.

Why Is This Extension Important?

The extended timeline provides stakeholders with:

• Additional time to compile accurate data as well as reconcile records.
• Opportunity to generate and transfer EPR Certificates on the EPR portal.
• Reduced risk of non-compliance, penalties, or environmental compensation.
• Better alignment between operational realities as well as regulatory reporting requirements.

This relief measure is intended to facilitate smoother compliance while maintaining regulatory oversight.

What is the Date of Implementation?

The extension is effective immediately upon issuance of the approval by the Ministry. Accordingly, the revised compliance deadline of 30 June 2024 shall be treated as the applicable date for implementation for filing quarterly and annual returns for FY 2023–24 under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.

What Should Stakeholders Do Now?

All registered entities must ensure that their quarterly and annual returns for FY 2023–24 are correctly filed on the CPCB EPR portal on or before 30 June 2024. Entities should also verify that their EPR targets are met and are duly supported by valid EPR certificates generated from registered recyclers only.

With 10+ years of compliance experience, Brand Liaison supports businesses through simplified documentation, expert consultancy, technical assistance, EPR guidance, in-depth regulatory knowledge, portal support, as well as a complete compliance strategy, ensuring timely filings and seamless adherence to the E-Waste Management Rules without operational disruption.