Environmental Labs Gear Up for 37th Quality Control Exercise
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has announced the organization of the 37th Analytical Quality Control (AQC) Exercise for environmental laboratories across India. This program, scheduled for January 2025, aims to ensure the accuracy and reliability of environmental data by testing laboratories’ ability to analyze water and soil samples for various chemical and physical parameters.
India Strengthens Environmental and Industrial Safety Regulations
A significant step towards enhanced monitoring is the mandatory installation of Online Continuous Effluent/Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) for 17 categories of high pollution potential industries and common waste treatment facilities. This system allows for real-time, 24/7 monitoring of pollutant levels. Data is transmitted online to the CPCB and relevant SPCBs/PCCs. Critically, the system is designed to automatically generate SMS alerts to the industrial unit, SPCB, and CPCB if pollutant levels exceed prescribed norms, enabling swift corrective action and regulatory intervention.
Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates, Commission Invokes Emergency Measures
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has been steadily rising, reaching a concerning 379 by 4 PM on December 16, 2024. Forecasts predict the AQI to remain in the “Very Poor” to “Severe” category in the coming days due to unfavorable weather conditions. This has prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and Adjoining Areas to invoke emergency measures under Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Draft EPR Rules for Packaging Made From Paper, Glass, Metal And Sanitary Products
The draft rules aim to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable packaging practices. The rules expand the scope of EPR to include a wider range of entities, including producers, importers, brand owners, and waste processors.
Stage IV and III of Graded Response Action Plan Revoked As Delhi’s Air Quality Improves
Delhi’s air quality has shown significant improvement, leading to the revocation of Stage IV and Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), according to a press release issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
Government Amends Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022
This sub-rule, which dealt with the constitution of a Central Coordination Committee, has been removed. Sub-rule (9) of Rule 13 has been amended to specify that any person who fails to comply with the provisions of these rules shall be liable to a penalty under Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
New Rules for Selection and Tenure of State Pollution Control Board Chairpersons
The Chairperson must possess special knowledge or practical experience in environmental protection or administration. The Chairperson will hold office for a maximum of three years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier. Removal from office can occur under specific circumstances, such as misconduct, incapacity, or financial interest conflicts.
Gurugram Offices Encouraged to Implement Work-from-Home Amidst Air Quality Concerns
Private offices are encouraged to shift their employees to work-from-home arrangements to minimize traffic congestion and pollution. The move is expected to reduce vehicular emissions and contribute to the overall improvement of air quality in the region. It is important to note that the duration of the work-from-home advisory will depend on the prevailing air quality conditions and further directives from the authorities.
PIBOs Reminded to File Annual Returns by November 30
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued a reminder to all Plastic Waste Management (PWM) rules, 2016, registered Plastic Waste Management Companies (PWMCs) and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) to file their Annual Returns (AR) for the financial year 2023-24 by November 30, 2024.
Ministry of Defence Introduces Solid Waste Management Rules For Ambala, Bareilly, Roorkee, Ayodhya and Dehradun
The Ministry of Defence has introduced Solid Waste Management Bye-laws for Ambala, Bareilly, Roorkee, Ayodhya and Dehradun. The new bye-laws aim at ensuring efficient and sustainable waste disposal practices within the cantonment areas. These bye-laws emphasize source segregation, proper storage, collection, and disposal of solid waste.
