Marking and Labelling Guidelines for Plastic Packaging Under Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016

India is advancing its efforts to manage plastic waste more effectively. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has introduced updated marking and labelling guidelines for plastic packaging. As per the notification dated 28th April 2025, it will become mandatory for all plastic packaging to carry a Quick Response (QR) Code from 1st July 2025. These requirements are aligned with the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016, updated with the amendment on 25th January 2025. This initiative is designed to enhance traceability, promote recycling, and strengthen waste management practices.

Background: Understanding the Plastic Waste Management Rules

Plastic waste continues to pose a significant environmental threat in India. To address this, the government established the Plastic Waste Management Rules in 2016. These rules outline how plastic waste should be collected, treated, and disposed of. Over the years, the framework has evolved. The most recent amendment on 25th January 2025 introduced Rule 11(1A), which outlines new marking and labelling requirements.

These labelling rules are part of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Under EPR, companies that manufacture, import, or sell plastic-packaged products—called Producers, Importers, and Brand Owners (PIBOs)—must ensure that their products are recycled or properly managed after use. The QR Code requirement reinforces this responsibility and improves transparency.

What Are the Marking and Labelling Guidelines?

The marking and labelling guidelines for plastic packaging require PIBOs to add specific labels to their plastic packaging. The CPCB’s notification lists four options for labelling, but the main focus is on Option 2: QR Code labelling. Here are the four options:

• Barcode: A barcode printed directly on the plastic packaging.

• QR Code: A Quick Response Code printed on the plastic packaging.

• Product Brochure: Information provided in a separate brochure that comes with the product.

• Unique Number: A unique number issued under any existing law, printed on the packaging.

Since the notification emphasizes QR Code labelling (Option 2), this article will focus on that. Starting 1st July 2025, all plastic packaging must have a QR Code that includes important details about the product and the company.

What Information Goes in the QR Code?

The QR Code must contain specific details to help track and manage plastic waste. These include:

• Name of the Importer or Brand Owner: Who made or sold the product.

• EPR Registration Certificate Number: A unique number given to the company when they register with the CPCB.

• Thickness of Flexible Plastic Packaging: For items like sachets, pouches, or carry bags, the thickness of the plastic must be included.

• Material Composition: The type of plastic used, such as PET (used for water bottles), HDPE (used for milk jugs), LDPE (used for plastic bags), PP (used for yogurt containers), PS (used for foam cups), PVC (used for pipes), or other types like ABS or PC.

• Recycled Plastic: If the packaging is made from recycled plastic, it must say “Recycled” and show the percentage of recycled content, along with a recycling mark as per the Indian Standard IS 14534:2023.

• Compostable Plastic: If the plastic is compostable, it must say “Compostable only under industrial composting” and follow the standard IS/ISO 17088:2021.

• Biodegradable Plastic: If the plastic is biodegradable, it must specify “Biodegradable in [number of days] only in [environment, e.g., soil, landfill, water].”

These details make it easier for recycling facilities, waste collectors, and even consumers to know what the packaging is made of and how to handle it.

Submitting Compliance Details to CPCB

It’s not enough to just print the QR Code. PIBOs must also tell the CPCB that they’ve followed the rules, which includes:

• The company’s name.

• Their EPR registration number.

• The category of plastic packaging (explained below).

• The thickness of the plastic (if applicable).

• A soft copy of the packaging label with the QR Code.

This submission must be done through the EPR Portal, a website the CPCB will set up soon. The CPCB will then publish a list of all compliant companies on its website every three months, so everyone can see who is following the rules.

Compliance and Exemptions

Compliance Deadline

All PIBOs must follow the marking and labelling guidelines for plastic packaging by 1st July 2025. This means that starting on this date, every piece of new plastic packaging must have a QR Code (or another approved label) with the required details. Since today is 21st May 2025, companies have about six weeks to prepare.

Exemptions

There are a few cases where companies might not need to follow these guidelines:

• Legal Metrology Rules: Plastic packaging covered under Rule 26 of the Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities Rules, 2011 is exempt. This includes certain pre-packaged goods with specific labelling requirements.

• Technical Infeasibility: If it’s not possible to print a QR Code (e.g., due to the size or material of the packaging), companies can ask the CPCB for permission to use another labelling method, like a brochure or a unique number.

To get an exemption, companies must apply to the CPCB and get approval. Without approval, they must follow the QR Code requirement.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

If companies fail to comply with the marking and labelling guidelines for plastic packaging, they could face serious consequences under Section 15 of the Environment Protection Act, 1986. These include:

• Fines up to ₹1 lakh.

• Imprisonment for up to 5 years.

• Or both.

Why These Guidelines Matter

The marking and labelling guidelines for plastic packaging are a big step towards reducing plastic pollution in India. Here’s why they’re important:

• Traceability: QR Codes let authorities track where plastic packaging comes from, making it easier to ensure it’s recycled or disposed of properly.

• Better Recycling: Knowing the type of plastic (e.g., PET or HDPE) helps recycling facilities process waste more efficiently.

• Consumer Awareness: The labels tell consumers how to dispose of the packaging, like whether it’s recyclable or compostable.

• Producer Accountability: Companies are held responsible for their products, encouraging them to use more eco-friendly materials.

These guidelines also support other environmental efforts in India, like the ban on certain single-use plastics (effective from 1st July 2022) and the prohibition of plastic carry bags thinner than 120 microns (effective from 31st December 2022). Together, these steps aim to create a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

Conclusion

The marking and labelling guidelines for plastic packaging under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (as amended), are a game-changer for managing plastic waste in India. By requiring QR Code labelling starting 1st July 2025, the CPCB is making it easier to track, recycle, and dispose of plastic responsibly. PIBOs must act quickly to comply with these rules, ensuring their packaging meets the requirements by the deadline. By following these guidelines, companies can contribute to a cleaner, greener India while avoiding hefty penalties.

Want to stay compliant with EPR regulations? Envirosense helps businesses navigate EPR registration, reporting, and waste management obligations for seamless compliance and sustainability.

📧 Email: mail@envirosense.in
📞 Call: +91-9667152500

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