Q.3 The Environment Ministry published draft regulations on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Examine the issues with the regulations and suggest the way forward. (10 Marks)

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https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-gaps-in-the-plan-to-tackle-plastic-waste/article38050930.ece
In the intro, briefly explain the EPR.
In the body, mention the issues such as not addressing the concerns of waste pickers, in the suggestions mention using EPR funds for mapping and registration of the informal sector actors, building their capacity, upgrading infrastructure, promoting technology transfer, and creating closed-loop feedback and monitoring mechanisms.
Next mention that guidelines are limited to plastic packaging only while a large part of plastics produced are single-use or throwaway plastic packaging, there are other multi-material plastic items. Also mention the debatable desirability and environmental impact of processing technologies while draft regulations legitimise them to justify the continued production of multi-layered plastics.
Conclude by mentioning the need for reconsideration of guidelines on three aspects addressing informal workers’ concerns, increasing the scope of plastic covered and evaluation of end-of-life processing technologies.

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