What Are EPR Credits and How to Buy Them in India? (Complete Guide)

Introduction: Understanding EPR Credits

As EPR compliance becomes mandatory across India, many brands ask one key question:

“How do we fulfil our EPR obligation if we don’t recycle plastic ourselves?”

The answer lies in EPR credits.

EPR credits provide a legal, scalable, and CPCB-approved way for brands to meet plastic waste management targets.

This guide explains what EPR credits are, how they work, how to buy them safely, and how to avoid compliance risks.

What Are EPR Credits?

EPR credits are certificates issued against the verified recycling or processing of plastic waste by authorized recyclers.

Each credit represents a specific quantity and type of plastic waste recycled in accordance with CPCB guidelines.

Brands can purchase these credits to offset their EPR targets.

Why Were EPR Credits Introduced?

India generates millions of tonnes of plastic waste annually. Not every brand can build its own recycling infrastructure.

EPR credits allow:

• Centralized waste processing

• Verified environmental impact

• Easier compliance for businesses

• Better tracking and accountability

How Do EPR Credits Work?

1. Authorized recyclers recycle plastic waste

2. Recycling data is verified on CPCB portal

3. EPR credits are generated digitally

4. Credits are transferred to brands

5. Brands upload credits to meet EPR targets

All transactions must be traceable and documented.

Types of EPR Credits in India

EPR credits vary based on:

• Plastic type (rigid, flexible, MLP)

• Recycling method

• Quantity (in metric tonnes)

Different plastic categories cannot be interchanged, making correct credit mapping essential.

Who Can Buy EPR Credits?

EPR credits can be purchased by:

• Producers

• Importers

• Brand owners

• E-commerce companies

Only entities registered on the CPCB EPR portal are eligible.

How to Buy EPR Credits in India (Safely)

Step 1: Confirm Your EPR Target

Understand your plastic type and quantity obligations.

Step 2: Choose Authorized Partners

Always work with CPCB-approved recyclers or compliance partners.

Step 3: Verify Credit Authenticity

Ensure credits are:

• Digitally traceable

• Linked to CPCB portal

• Backed by proper documentation

Step 4: Upload & Report

Credits must be uploaded correctly to fulfil compliance.

Cost of EPR Credits in India

The cost of EPR credits depends on:

• Plastic category

• Market demand & availability

• Quantity required

• Compliance timelines

Prices fluctuate, which is why early planning is recommended.

Risks of Buying Fake or Unverified EPR Credits

Buying cheap or unverified credits can lead to:

• Compliance rejection

• Penalties from CPCB

• Blacklisting of recyclers

• Legal complications

Always prioritize compliance over cost.

Why Brands Prefer EPR Compliance Partners

An experienced EPR partner:

• Ensures verified credit sourcing

• Handles documentation & reporting

• Provides audit support

• Reduces legal risks

• Saves time & internal resources

How ReEarthify Helps With EPR Credits

ReEarthify offers:

• Verified EPR credits

• CPCB-aligned documentation

• Transparent pricing

• End-to-end compliance support

• Long-term EPR planning

Our focus is trust, traceability, and compliance security.

EPR credits are the backbone of plastic waste compliance in India. When sourced correctly, they provide a legal and effective way to meet obligations and contribute to sustainable waste management.

The key is choosing the right partner and ensuring complete transparency.

Looking to buy verified EPR credits? Talk to ReEarthify today.