Environment News

Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026

April 2 , 2026 13 hrs 0 min 83 0

The Government notified the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, which will come into force from April 1, 2026.
The rules replace the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and are notified under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
Four-stream segregation of waste at source has been made mandatory for wet, dry, sanitary, and special care waste.
The rules follow principles like Circular Economy, Extended Producer Responsibility, and the Polluter Pays Principle.
Environmental compensation will be imposed for violations and monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards.
Bulk Waste Generators are clearly defined and made responsible for the proper collection, processing, and disposal of waste.
A centralised online portal will track waste generation, collection, transport, processing, and disposal.
Use of Refuse Derived Fuel in industries is made mandatory with a gradual increase in the substitution rate.
Strict restrictions are placed on landfilling, and focus is given on biomining and bioremediation of old waste dumps.