Conference on EPR in Packaging Sees Meaningful Dialogues, Concluded Successfully by PHDCCI
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) successfully hosted a pivotal conference on “Decoding the EPR Challenges, Opportunities & Way Forward” at PHD House, New Delhi. The event convened a diverse group of industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, and key stakeholders to engage in critical discussions surrounding the implementation, challenges, and potential of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) within the packaging sector, with a strong emphasis on fostering sustainable solutions.
Mr. Naveen Seth, DSG, PHDCCI, set the stage by highlighting the transformative potential of EPR frameworks in shaping sustainable waste management and circular economies. He acknowledged the complexities involved in practical application, regulatory hurdles, infrastructure gaps, and stakeholder alignment.
In his welcome address, Mr. Ajit Kumar, Chair of the PHDCCI Packaging Committee and MD of Ajit Industries Pvt Ltd., underscored the growing significance of EPR in achieving India’s sustainability objectives. While acknowledging challenges such as ambiguous guidelines and infrastructure limitations, he emphasized the opportunities for capacity building and the development of a transparent EPR ecosystem through collaboration between government and industry.
Mr. Jeevaraj Pillai, Co-Chair of the PHDCCI Packaging Committee and Director Sustainability & President Flexible Packaging & New Product Development at Uflex Ltd., delivered the theme address. He emphasized that this conference, as part of an ongoing series, aimed to delve into the intricacies of EPR, addressing frequently asked questions and clarifying procedural steps within the Indian context. He stressed the importance of India, as part of the global community, actively addressing shared environmental concerns through effective EPR implementation.
Ms. Deepti Kapil, Scientist E, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Government of India, graced the occasion with her valuable insights, emphasizing the urgent need for EPR given the escalating industrial waste generation. She highlighted the shift from a ‘take, make, dispose’ model towards the transformative path offered by the Mission Circular Economy, inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji.
Mr. Ajeya Bandyopadhyay, South Asia Lead, Climate Change, International Finance Corporation (IFC), cautioned about the significant value loss projected in the FMCG packaging sector by 2030 if systemic constraints in recovery are not addressed through technological advancements.
The conference featured an engaging panel discussion moderated by Ms. Ipsita Roy, Senior Manager, A A Garg & Co., on the theme: “Pathways to a Circular India: A Brand-Led Dialogue.” Esteemed panelists including Mr. Nitin Chitkara, CEO, MMCM, Ms. Snigdha Berry, Senior Manager – Plastics Advocacy & Sustainability, Nestle, Ms. Manjri Gopalan India & Southwest Asia Regional Manager, Market Access, Corporate Affairs, HPE, and Ms. Himani Airan, Deputy Manager, A A Garg & Co. shared their perspectives on EPR obligations for OEMs, challenges in enforcing EPR compliance for packaging, the role of reuse and recycling in the electronics industry, and the importance of brands aligning with circular design principles and fulfilling compliance requirements through certifications and audits.
A dedicated technical session on “Case Studies and Best Practices in EPR Implementation” provided practical insights from consultants. Mr. Pavee Raheja, CEO & Founder, Rappr Innovations Pvt Ltd., discussed enabling circularity through EPR, highlighting successful case studies in material disposal and in-house recycling. Mr. Vikash Garg, Assistant Vice President, Rerout, emphasized the transformative outcomes of EPR in encouraging sustainable product design and promoting eco-friendly alternatives, showcasing real-world EPR initiatives from companies like HUL, ITC, and Bisleri. Ms. Preeti Tiwari, Head – Business Development EPR Solutions for E-waste, Plastics & Batteries, Landbell Greenforest Solutions, focused on clean India through EPR and waste advisory, sharing experiences in waste management projects and exploring opportunities in recycling market studies and e-waste credits.
The day-long conference, moderated by Mr. Rakesh Kumar Sangrai, Director, PHDCCI, witnessed active participation from over 60 business delegates, including policymakers, industry leaders, consultants, and R&D and regulatory experts, fostering a collaborative environment for advancing EPR implementation in India.