Import of Hazardous Waste in India: How It’s Regulated and Why It Matters

Import of Hazardous Waste in India: How It’s Regulated and Why It Matters

What is Hazardous Waste?

Hazardous waste is any waste substance that, because of its poisonous, reactive, corrosive, or combustible properties, presents serious or possible risks to the environment or public health. As examples, consider:

• Electronic waste (e-waste)

• Chemical residues

• Used oil and solvents

• Contaminated containers

• Batteries and lead scrap

Can Hazardous Waste Be Imported Into India?

Yes—but under strict government regulation. India permits the import of hazardous waste only for recycling, recovery, or reuse purposes. It is prohibited for dumping or disposal.

The regulation framework is governed under:

• Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016

• Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes

Who Regulates Hazardous Waste Imports?

The following authorities are very important:

• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)

• Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

• State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)

• Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)

All importers are required to get authorization and adhere to these agencies' licensing requirements.

Hazardous Waste Authorization Certificate: A Must-Have

The State Pollution Control Board must provide a hazardous waste authorization certificate to companies in India before they may import or handle hazardous waste.

Key Requirements for Hazardous Waste Authorization:

• Proper waste storage and handling facilities

• Environmental clearance, if applicable

• Adequate space, safety gear, and pollution control systems

• A valid hazardous waste license issued by the respective SPCB

• Annual waste management reports and tracking mechanisms

Commonly Imported Hazardous Wastes Allowed in India:

• Used electrical and electronic assemblies for repair or reuse

• Zinc ash and residues

• Metal-bearing waste for recovery

• Spent catalysts and used oil (for recycling)

• Lead acid battery scrap (subject to conditions)

  
  

  Note: Each of these items must follow specific documentation and hazardous waste authorization procedures.

Required Documents for Authorization of Imports:

• Import-export code (IEC)

• Consent to Operate from the Pollution Control Board

• Valid recycling or reuse facility certificate

• Material safety data sheet (MSDS)

• MoEFCC permission (if required)

• Copy of previous import performance (if applicable)

Penalties for Violations

Any importer found violating the rules may face:

• Cancellation of hazardous waste license

• Seizure of goods

• Environmental compensation fines

• Criminal prosecution under the Environment Protection Act

Final Thought

Hazardous waste imports into India are an environmental obligation as well as a trade concern. Recycling and recovery are carried out safely and sustainably when proper compliance is ensured by a valid hazardous waste authorization certificate. Businesses must adhere to the law and support environmental preservation as India fortifies its waste management ecosystem.