Many Indian enterprises are looking at importing hazardous waste, including metals, plastics, and paper, for processing and reuse in response to the growing need for recycling and resource recovery worldwide. However, importing hazardous trash is more complicated than bringing in raw resources. The Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016 in India control this strictly.
What is Hazardous Waste?
Hazardous waste is any waste that poses a risk to human health or the environment, usually due to the presence of poisonous, combustible, corrosive, or reactive materials. Despite the seemingly innocuous nature of metals, plastics, and paper, some waste types—particularly combined materials, industrial leftovers, or tainted recyclables—fall under the hazardous waste category.
That’s why companies handling these imports must obtain proper hazardous waste authorization before they can legally bring in or process such materials.
The Detailed Hazardous Waste Import Process
An outline of the legal procedures for bringing hazardous waste imports (paper, plastics, and metals) into India is provided below:
Identify the Waste Category
Not all wastes are allowed for import. You must check if the waste type (e.g., metal scrap, plastic waste, paper waste) is listed under Schedule VI of the Hazardous Waste Rules as permissible for import and under what conditions.
Apply for Hazardous Waste Authorization
Before importing, your company needs to get a hazardous waste authorization certificate from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB).
To apply:
- Submit Form 1 (Application for Authorization) through the SPCB portal.
- Provide details of your facility, processing methods, storage, and waste management plans.
- Attach supporting documents like company registration, waste handling agreements, and facility layout.
Once approved, you will receive the hazardous waste authorisation certificate, which is valid for a specific period (typically 5 years) and needs periodic renewal.
Obtain Import Permission
For hazardous waste import, you also need:
- Consent to Establish/Operate under Air & Water Acts (from SPCB)
- Authorization from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) if required
- Pre-shipment inspection certificate from the exporting country
- Bill of Entry and other customs documents
Ensure Proper Transportation & Handling
Imported hazardous waste must be transported, stored, and processed following strict environmental and safety standards.
✔ Use registered transporters.
✔ Label consignments clearly as hazardous waste.
✔ Maintain records of receipt, processing, and disposal.
Maintain Compliance & Reporting
You are required to:
- Submit annual returns to the SPCB detailing the quantity of waste imported, processed, and disposed of.
- Keep your hazardous waste authorization valid and up to date.
- Renew your hazardous waste certificate before expiry to avoid penalties or cancellation.
Why is Hazardous Waste Authorization Important?
Having a hazardous waste authorization certificate ensures that your company:
- Is legally compliant with Indian environmental laws
- Can avoid penalties, fines, or import bans
- Builds trust with suppliers, regulators, and customers by demonstrating responsible waste management practices
Without proper authorization, importing hazardous waste can result in heavy legal action, environmental damage, and reputational loss.
Final Thought
The import of hazardous waste (metals, plastics, paper) offers huge opportunities for recycling and resource recovery in India, but it comes with serious responsibilities. By following the correct hazardous waste import procedure, obtaining the necessary hazardous waste authorization, and maintaining environmental compliance, businesses can turn waste into wealth safely and legally.
