February 2026 has marked a significant shift in India’s environmental compliance landscape, with multiple digital platforms, regulatory notifications, and structural changes introduced across Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) streams and solid waste management.
This article summarises the major developments and their implications for obligated entities across sectors.
1. New Digital Infrastructure Across EPR
Several new portals have been launched to strengthen transparency and governance:
- Common EPR Portal – Unified multi-portal login with single sign-on integration.
- EPR Electronic Trading Platform (ETP) – Developed by MSTC Ltd., released on 1 February 2026.
- EPR Audit Portal – Secure auditor login with standardized online forms (currently for plastic).
- EPR Support Portal – Centralised grievance and ticketing system.
2. CPCB’s EPR Electronic Trading Platform (ETP)
The EPR-ETP represents a structural shift in how EPR credits will be traded, introducing centralised, transparent and market-based mechanisms.
Key Features
- Centralised exchange for EPR certificates across waste streams.
- Market-based price matching within notified floor and ceiling bands.
- Escrow-based fund management system.
- Expected phasing out of offline credit transactions.
- Mandatory trading for registered entities (as clarified by CPCB).
Implications
- Potential increase in EPR credit pricing.
- Supply-demand disparities impacting procurement strategies.
- Advance payments becoming common practice.
- Need for finance, legal and compliance alignment.
3. Goa Deposit Refund Scheme (DRS)
The Goa DRS moves toward full implementation from 1 April 2026, covering multiple packaging categories including glass, rigid plastic, flexible plastic, metal cans, liquid packaging boards and multi-layered packaging.
Key Requirements
- Registration on Goa DRS portal (Deadline: 28 February 2026).
- Deposit escrow mechanism.
- Unique Serialized Identifier (USI) marking.
- Reverse Collection Fee (RCF).
- QR-enabled packaging compliance.
4. Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026
Released on 27 January 2026 and effective from 1 April 2026, the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026 introduce strengthened accountability, digital monitoring, and structured enforcement timelines.
Key Highlights
- Mandatory four-way segregation: Wet, Dry, Sanitary and Special Care waste.
- Extended Bulk Waste Generator Responsibility (EBWGR) framework.
- Landfill restrictions for high calorific value waste.
- Centralised CPCB digital portal with reporting and verification.
- Strengthened Environmental Compensation mechanisms.
5. Updates Across EPR Streams
- Plastic Packaging – Portal updates and clarification on credit offsetting mechanisms.
- E-Waste – State-level notices and hearing updates on EC calculations.
- Used Oil – Extended annual return filing timeline.
- Battery Waste – Introduction of Battery Pack Aadhaar system.
- End-of-Life Vehicles – Portal release and revised operational guidelines.
6. Upcoming EPR Streams
From 1 April 2026, EPR for Non-Ferrous Metal Scrap and Construction & Demolition Waste is expected to come into force, expanding producer responsibility further.
Way Forward
The regulatory direction emphasizes digital integration, transparency, strict enforcement, and structured governance. Organisations should align cross-functional teams and adopt forward-looking compliance strategies to navigate the evolving landscape effectively.