Draft Environment (Protection) (Amendment) Rules, 2024
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has proposed significant amendments to the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. These draft amendments aim to enhance environmental protection by strengthening enforcement mechanisms. The draft amendments were published July 18, 2024.
The Central Pollution Control Board Issues New Updates to Draft Report on Classification of Sectors in Red, Orange, Green, White and Blue Categories
On July 11, 2024, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) invited comments on updates to the Draft Report on Sector Classification. Key changes include:
Revised Section 6: Updated from “Types of sectors based on their activities” to “Types of sectors considered for classification.”
New Section 9: Added after Section 8, detailing incentives for sectors adopting measures for improved environmental performance.
SOP For ZLD Verification Of Distilleries
The Government of India has implemented a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to streamline the verification process for Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems in distilleries. This initiative aims to expedite the disbursement of financial assistance under a scheme promoting ethanol production.
Deadline Extended For Submission Of Waste Tyre & E-Waste Reports
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has extended the deadline for producers and recyclers of waste tyres and e-waste to file their quarterly and annual reports. The deadline for filing reports for the financial year 2023-24 has been extended from June 30, 2024 to August 31, 2024.
Maharashtra Pollution Control Board Extends Amnesty Scheme for Industry Penal Fees
The original Amnesty Scheme waived a portion of penal fees for industries and healthcare establishments violating air and water pollution control regulations like delayed consent applications or operating without consent. This scheme was applicable for applications submitted between March 1 to May 31, 2024. Considering a positive industry response, the MPCB has extended the scheme for an additional three months, from June 1, 2024 to August 31, 2024.
CAQM Enhances Plantation Drive to Combat Air Pollution
Recognizing the effectiveness of vegetation in mitigating dust, a major contributor to poor air quality, CAQM has set ambitious plantation targets. After exceeding the 2022-23 target of 3.85 crore new plantations, the Commission is aiming even higher for 2024-25, with a target of 4.5 crore new trees across NCR states and Delhi.
CPCB Issues Report on Pollution Source Mapping of River Hindon & Its Tributaries And Restoration Plan for Polluted Stretches
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued a report highlighting the complex challenges associated with river rejuvenation projects in India. The report aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical application for effective river rejuvenation. It focuses rejuvenation efforts to restore a river’s natural self-purification abilities, making it sustainable in the long run.
Battery Waste Management (Second Amendment) Rules, 2024
The amendment rules state that the phased implementation of the targets of minimum use of recycled materials for all batteries, whether portable or of electric vehicles, or automotive or industrial shall begin from 2027-2028. The notification has also specified that these targets are to be met in terms of financial year.
Delhi-NCR Migrates Inter-city Bus Services To Cleaner Modes
Upon deliberations with all concerned stakeholders, it was decided that older polluting buses (BS-III and BS-IV) entering Delhi-NCR from neighboring states will be phased out. These buses will be replaced with cleaner options such as Electric Vehicles (EVs), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and BS-VI diesel compliant buses (latest emission standards). This directive applies to buses operated by state governments, public sector undertakings (PSUs), and private entities.
Goa State PCB Notifies Additional Dismantlers Of E-Waste
GSPCB has authorized new units for E-waste dismantling. Bulk consumers are called to regularly dispose of E-waste through these authorized channels.
