Waste Management in India: Rules and Explanation
In India, solid and hazardous waste management is regulated by a set of rules designed to
manage waste generation, handling, storage, transportation, and disposal in a manner that
minimizes risks to human health and the environment. These rules aim to promote waste
segregation, recycling, and safe disposal, while also focusing on the reduction of waste at
source.
Here’s an outline of key rules for solid and hazardous waste management in India:
1. Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 (SWM Rules)
The Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, focus on waste segregation at the source,
collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of municipal solid waste (MSW).
Key Provisions:
Segregation of Waste: Waste must be segregated into three categories—
biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and domestic hazardous waste—at the source
(households, commercial establishments, etc.).
Collection and Storage: Waste should be collected, stored, and transported in a
manner that prevents the spread of diseases and ensures environmental protection.
Processing: Municipalities and local authorities are encouraged to promote
composting, waste-to-energy plants, and material recovery facilities (MRFs) for
recycling and resource recovery.
Waste Minimization and Recycling: Emphasizes the reduction of waste generation
through public awareness, recycling, and composting, while setting targets for the
diversion of waste from landfills.
Role of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs): ULBs are responsible for ensuring waste
management within their jurisdictions, including public awareness and setting up
systems for waste segregation and management.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers, importers, and brand owners
are held responsible for collecting and recycling the products once they reach the end
of their life.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Penalties are levied for non-compliance with waste
segregation and management norms.
2. Hazardous Waste Management Rules, 2016 (Hazardous Waste Rules)
The Hazardous Waste Management Rules, 2016, were established to control the generation,
handling, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste, which poses significant risks to the
environment and public health.
Key Provisions:
Definition of Hazardous Waste: Waste is classified as hazardous if it is toxic,
flammable, corrosive, reactive, or otherwise harmful to human health and the
environment.
Authorization: Industries or establishments generating hazardous waste must obtain
authorization from the Pollution Control Boards (PCB) or the Central Pollution
Control Board (CPCB) for the generation, storage, treatment, and disposal of
hazardous waste.
Identification and Segregation: Proper identification of hazardous waste through the
use of waste codes and labeling is required for easy segregation and disposal.
Storage and Disposal: Hazardous waste must be stored in secure, safe locations,
using methods that prevent contamination of the environment. Disposal is generally
done through landfilling at specialized sites or treatment through incineration or other
approved methods.
Transportation: Transportation of hazardous waste must be carried out by registered
carriers and require appropriate documentation to track the waste's movement.
Recycling and Treatment: Hazardous waste should be recycled or treated as far as
possible to minimize the environmental impact. Technologies like incineration,
pyrolysis, and chemical treatment are used for this purpose.
Collection and Disposal Sites: Specialized facilities, such as hazardous waste
landfills and incinerators, must be established by state authorities for safe disposal.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Any violation of the hazardous waste management norms
leads to penalties, including fines and, in extreme cases, legal actions.
Conclusion
India’s approach to waste management is a comprehensive framework involving several rules
and regulations across different waste types—solid, hazardous, biomedical, e-waste, and
plastic waste. The rules encourage both waste minimization and responsible disposal, aiming
for a more sustainable future by reducing pollution and enhancing recycling initiatives.
While the rules are in place, enforcement remains a challenge. Effective waste management
requires not just regulatory frameworks but also the active participation of industries, local
authorities, and the public to ensure proper waste segregation, handling, and disposal
practices.
