2.

Scoping:
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in India o This step involves identifying the key issues and impacts that need to be
assessed. A Terms of Reference (ToR) document is prepared, outlining the
Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study's scope and the required data collection. The ToR is approved by the
Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) for Category A projects or by the State
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a crucial process designed to evaluate the Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) for Category B projects. The ToR
potential environmental impacts of a proposed development project before it is executed. It specifies the methodology, data to be collected, and the study areas.
ensures that decision-makers consider environmental consequences and take necessary 3. Baseline Data Collection:
measures to minimize adverse effects. In India, EIA is a critical tool for integrating o In this phase, data on existing environmental conditions are collected,
environmental considerations into the planning and decision-making process, promoting covering parameters such as air and water quality, soil characteristics, flora
sustainable development. and fauna, socio-economic conditions, and land use patterns. This data serves
as a benchmark against which potential impacts are measured.
Historical Background of EIA in India 4. Impact Prediction:
o The core of the EIA process, impact prediction involves forecasting potential
EIA was introduced in India in 1976-77 when the Planning Commission mandated that any impacts of the proposed project on various environmental components,
river valley project must undergo an environmental assessment. Initially, the process was including air, water, soil, noise, ecology, and human health. Mathematical
limited in scope and applied to a few projects. However, with growing environmental models, simulations, and other scientific tools are often employed to predict
awareness and public participation, the Government of India formally introduced EIA under these impacts.
the Environmental Protection Act of 1986, and it became mandatory for various categories of 5. Mitigation Measures:
developmental projects to undergo an EIA process. The first EIA notification was issued in o Based on the predicted impacts, strategies to minimize, mitigate, or
1994, making it legally binding for 32 categories of projects to obtain clearance from the compensate for adverse effects are formulated. These may include design
Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) before commencing modifications, technology upgrades, pollution control measures, and
operations. environmental management plans.
6. Public Consultation:
Objectives of EIA o Public participation is a vital component of the EIA process in India. The draft
EIA report is made available to the public, and a public hearing is conducted
1. Prevent Environmental Degradation: To anticipate and mitigate the adverse by the Pollution Control Board in the project-affected area. Stakeholders,
environmental effects of proposed projects. including local communities, NGOs, and experts, are invited to provide their
2. Promote Sustainable Development: To balance developmental needs with feedback, which must be incorporated into the final EIA report.
environmental conservation. 7. EIA Report Preparation:
3. Improve Decision-Making: To provide a comprehensive understanding of the o The final EIA report is prepared, integrating all findings, including the
environmental implications of a project, thus aiding policymakers. baseline data, predicted impacts, mitigation measures, and public consultation
4. Facilitate Public Participation: To ensure public involvement in decision-making feedback. The report is submitted to the regulatory authorities for review.
processes. 8. Appraisal:
5. Compliance with Regulations: To ensure that projects conform to existing o The EAC or SEAC evaluates the EIA report and recommends whether to grant
environmental laws and regulations. environmental clearance, with or without conditions. This stage involves
detailed scrutiny of the project, considering environmental, technical, and
Key Steps in the EIA Process in India social factors. Site visits, expert consultations, and technical presentations may
also be conducted during the appraisal.
1. Screening: 9. Decision-Making:
o The first step involves determining whether a project requires an EIA based on o The final decision on granting or rejecting environmental clearance is made by
its type, scale, and location. The screening process classifies projects into the MoEFCC (for Category A projects) or the SEIAA (for Category B
Category A, which requires mandatory EIA clearance from the central projects). The decision is based on the EIA report, recommendations of the
government (MoEFCC), and Category B, which requires clearance from the EAC/SEAC, and compliance with statutory requirements.
State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). 10. Post-Clearance Monitoring:
o Category A Projects: Major projects with significant potential environmental o Once the project is approved, the proponent must implement the mitigation
impacts (e.g., thermal power plants, large-scale industrial units, mining measures and environmental management plans. The MoEFCC or SEIAA
projects). monitors compliance with clearance conditions, requiring periodic reports and
o Category B Projects: Projects with relatively lesser potential impacts. These site inspections to ensure adherence.
are further classified into B1 (requiring EIA) and B2 (not requiring EIA).
Legal Framework Governing EIA in India

1. Environmental Protection Act, 1986: The umbrella legislation under which the EIA 7 different types of plastics in India according to government rules,
process was formally introduced. particularly the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules, 2016 (amended
2. EIA Notification, 2006: Provides detailed guidelines for EIA, including
categorization of projects, procedural steps, and public consultation requirements. The in 2021):
2006 notification superseded the 1994 notification and introduced a decentralized
process, with SEIAA handling Category B projects. Type of Common Environmental Government Recycling and
Description
3. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011: Regulates activities in coastal Plastic Uses Impact Regulations Disposal
areas and mandates an EIA for projects within the CRZ. Permitted;
4. Forest Conservation Act, 1980: Requires clearance for projects involving diversion Can be
Low must be
of forest land. Clear, Beverage recycled;
biodegradability; recycled and
5. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Prohibits projects that may harm protected areas, such Polyethylene strong, and bottles, food collection and
can be recycled reused under
as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, without clearance. Terephthalate lightweight containers, recycling
but may still Extended
(PET or plastic often synthetic mandated
contribute to Producer
Key Challenges in the EIA Process in India PETE) used for fibers under EPR;
microplastic Responsibility
packaging. (polyester). reuse
pollution. (EPR)
1. Lengthy and Bureaucratic Procedures: The EIA process in India can be time- encouraged.
guidelines.
consuming and complex, involving multiple stakeholders and agencies. Easily
2. Inadequate Public Participation: Despite provisions for public consultation, there Low Permitted with recyclable;
are often concerns regarding the transparency, accessibility, and inclusiveness of the Tough,
Milk jugs, biodegradability; recycling collected and
process. durable
High-Density detergent resistant to obligations; processed
3. Data Gaps and Quality: Inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated baseline data can affect plastic with
Polyethylene bottles, impact and must follow under EPR
the reliability of impact predictions and mitigation plans. high
(HDPE) shopping weather; EPR rules for rules; reuse
4. Limited Capacity and Resources: State-level authorities, like SEIAA and SEAC, strength-to-
bags, piping. contributes to waste recommended
often lack adequate resources, expertise, and capacity to effectively conduct EIA density ratio.
landfill. management. for multiple
appraisals. uses.
5. Conflict of Interest: In some cases, the project proponents themselves are responsible
for preparing the EIA report, leading to concerns over objectivity and bias. Challenging to
Use is
6. Enforcement and Compliance Issues: Post-clearance monitoring and enforcement recycle;
Versatile permitted with
of environmental conditions are often weak, leading to non-compliance by project requires
plastic strict
developers. Pipes, separation and
available in Releases toxic regulations;
window specialized
rigid and substances (like must adhere to
Reforms and Improvements in the EIA Process Polyvinyl frames, recycling
flexible dioxins) during proper
Chloride flooring, processes;
forms; production and disposal
1. Draft EIA Notification, 2020: Proposes several amendments to the 2006 notification, (PVC) medical disposal
resistant to disposal; low methods;
including a new classification of projects, timelines for clearance, and post-facto equipment, requires safe
chemicals biodegradability. banned in
approvals. It aims to streamline the process but has faced criticism for potentially credit cards. methods due to
and food
diluting environmental safeguards. the release of
weathering. packaging
2. Increased Transparency: Strengthening public consultation mechanisms, improving hazardous
applications.
access to information, and leveraging digital platforms for data dissemination can substances.
enhance transparency. Permitted but Difficult to
Flexible and Low
3. Capacity Building: Enhancing the capacity of state-level authorities, increasing Plastic bags, subject to recycle due to
durable biodegradability;
technical expertise, and providing adequate resources are crucial for effective EIA cling film, regulations; contamination;
plastic with contributes
implementation. Low-Density flexible banned in waste
a low significantly to
4. Data Management and Use of Technology: Modernizing data collection methods, Polyethylene container some states management
melting plastic pollution,
using satellite imagery, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and advanced (LDPE) lids, wire for use in focuses on
point; used especially in
modeling techniques can improve the accuracy of impact assessments. and cable plastic bags reduction and
for film oceans and water
insulation. below 50 reuse;
applications. bodies.
microns recycling
 Type of
Description
Common Environmental Government Recycling and Solid Waste Management in India
Plastic Uses Impact Regulations Disposal
thickness. facilities for Introduction
LDPE are
limited. Solid waste management (SWM) is a critical issue in India, driven by rapid urbanization,
Tough, industrialization, and population growth. India generates an estimated 62 million tonnes of
Permitted; waste annually, of which 43 million tonnes are collected, 11.9 million tonnes are treated, and
lightweight, Recyclable;
Food recycling is 31 million tonnes are dumped in landfill sites. The challenge of managing this growing
and resistant Low needs to be
containers, encouraged volume of waste has significant implications for public health, environmental sustainability,
to heat; biodegradability; separated from
bottle caps, under EPR; and economic development.
Polypropylene commonly contributes to other waste;
straws, banned in
(PP) used for landfill and can collection and
automotive specific Types of Solid Waste
packaging release toxic processing
parts, single-use
and gases if burned. under EPR
textiles. applications 1. Urban (Municipal) Solid Waste (MSW): Comprises everyday items discarded by
automotive rules.
(e.g., straws). households, commercial establishments, institutions, and small-scale industries. This
parts.
waste includes biodegradable (organic) waste, recyclable materials (paper, plastic,
Banned in
Rigid and Very low glass, metals), and inert materials (construction debris, dust).
many single- Difficult to
brittle plastic biodegradability; 2. Industrial Solid Waste: Generated by industrial activities, including manufacturing,
Disposable use recycle;
that can be foam version mining, and processing industries. It consists of hazardous and non-hazardous waste
cutlery, applications generally
molded (EPS) is such as scrap metals, ash, chemicals, sludges, and packaging materials.
cups, plates, like cutlery, disposed of in
Polystyrene easily; also particularly
food cups, and landfills or
(PS) available in harmful to Causes of Solid Waste Generation in India
containers, plates; not incinerated;
a foam form marine life and
insulation permitted for recycling is
(Expanded contributes to 1. Urbanization and Population Growth:
material. food contact limited and not
Polystyrene microplastic o Rapid urbanization has led to the expansion of cities and an increase in waste
use in some cost-effective.
or EPS). pollution. generation. By 2030, India's urban population is expected to reach 600
states.
million, exacerbating the challenge of managing municipal solid waste.
Hard to o The lack of adequate infrastructure and planning in many urban areas
Must be
recycle; special contributes to improper waste disposal and management practices.
Any other Low collected and
Snack facilities 2. Consumerism and Lifestyle Changes:
plastics not biodegradability; processed
Other packaging, required to o Growing consumerism, increased purchasing power, and lifestyle changes
categorized very difficult to under EPR;
(Including laminated separate layers; have led to a surge in the consumption of disposable goods and packaging
above; often recycle due to banned for
Multi- tubes, some emphasis on materials. This has increased the volume of single-use plastics, e-waste, and
a mix of mixed materials; single-use
Layered automotive reduction, other non-biodegradable waste.
materials, contributes to applications
Plastics - and reuse, and o The lack of awareness and motivation among citizens to segregate waste at the
not all of long-term like
MLPs) electronic alternatives source further aggravates the problem.
which are pollution in multilayered
components. like 3. Industrial Growth:
plastic. landfills. packaging
biodegradable o India's industrial sector is a significant contributor to waste generation,
films.
materials. particularly in sectors like textiles, chemicals, paper, and food processing.
Industrial waste, including hazardous waste, poses significant risks to the
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): All producers, importers, and brand environment and human health.
owners must manage plastic waste collection, recycling, and disposal under EPR o Inefficient production processes and outdated technologies in many industries
guidelines. result in higher waste generation.
• Recycling Mandates: Plastics like PET, HDPE, and PP are recyclable, and their 4. Lack of Effective Waste Management Systems:
recycling is strongly encouraged. PVC and PS have limited recycling options and o Many cities in India lack proper waste management systems, including
require special handling due to toxic releases. infrastructure for waste collection, segregation, transportation, treatment, and
• Emphasis on Alternatives: Promoting biodegradable and compostable plastics is a disposal.
key focus, though such alternatives must meet strict standards (IS/ISO 17088:2008) o Municipal bodies often struggle with insufficient funding, inadequate
for biodegradability. workforce, and lack of technological know-how.
Effects of Improper Solid Waste Management o Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (amended in 2021): Bans specific
single-use plastic items, encourages plastic waste recycling, and mandates
1. Environmental Impact: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for manufacturers.
o Land Pollution: The dumping of waste in open landfills causes soil o Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary
contamination due to the leaching of hazardous chemicals, heavy metals, and Movement) Rules, 2016: Regulates the handling, storage, treatment, and
pathogens. This can degrade soil quality and reduce agricultural productivity. disposal of hazardous and industrial waste.
o Water Pollution: Leachate from solid waste dumpsites can contaminate 2. Technological Interventions:
surface and groundwater sources, posing risks to aquatic life and human o Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Plants: India has 14 operational WtE plants,
health. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 60% of converting waste into electricity, biogas, and other forms of energy. However,
India’s surface water is contaminated, partly due to poor waste management issues related to the high moisture content of Indian waste and operational
practices. inefficiencies need to be addressed.
o Air Pollution: Open burning of waste, a common practice in India, releases o Decentralized Waste Processing: Promoting decentralized composting,
toxic gases, particulate matter, and greenhouse gases such as methane and biomethanation, and recycling units can reduce the burden on centralized
carbon dioxide, contributing to air pollution and climate change. waste management facilities.
2. Public Health Hazards: o Advanced Recycling Technologies: Adoption of technologies such as
o Improper waste management exposes people to harmful chemicals, pathogens, pyrolysis, gasification, and plasma arc recycling can help in the efficient
and toxic fumes. This can lead to respiratory problems, skin infections, vector- treatment of complex waste streams, including e-waste and hazardous waste.
borne diseases (e.g., dengue, malaria), and even cancer. 3. Public Awareness and Participation:
o Waste handlers and rag pickers, often working without protective gear, are at o Source Segregation Campaigns: Initiatives like the Swachh Survekshan
high risk of health issues due to direct exposure to hazardous waste. survey have promoted awareness and incentivized source segregation at the
3. Economic Costs: household level.
o Poor waste management affects the tourism industry, reduces property values, o Involving Informal Sector: Empowering waste pickers and recyclers through
and increases public spending on healthcare due to waste-related diseases. formalization and capacity building can improve recycling rates and waste
o The inefficient use of resources, such as materials that could have been management outcomes.
recycled or reused, represents a significant economic loss. 4. Infrastructural Development:
4. Climate Change: o Improved Collection and Transportation: Investing in modern waste
o Decomposing organic waste in landfills produces methane, a potent collection vehicles, smart bins, and real-time monitoring systems can enhance
greenhouse gas. India is the world’s third-largest emitter of methane from efficiency in waste collection and transportation.
solid waste disposal, significantly contributing to global warming. o Scientific Landfill Management: Developing engineered landfills with
leachate treatment facilities, gas capture systems, and proper waste
Current Data and Facts compaction methods can minimize the environmental impact.
5. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR):
• According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, India generates 62 million o Encouraging producers to take responsibility for the lifecycle of their
tonnes of MSW annually, which is expected to increase to 165 million tonnes by products, including waste management and recycling, can reduce the burden
2030. on municipalities and promote circular economy practices.
• As per the CPCB, 95% of waste in India is dumped in open landfills, many of which 6. Financial Incentives and Support:
are unlined and prone to leachate leakage. o Tax Incentives and Subsidies: Providing financial incentives for businesses
• Only 60-70% of urban waste is collected, and less than 20% is processed or treated. and households that adopt sustainable waste management practices, such as
• The Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) aims to achieve 100% scientific waste composting and recycling.
management, but progress remains slow, with many cities yet to establish adequate o Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encouraging PPP models to attract
waste treatment facilities. private investment and expertise in waste management infrastructure and
services.
Control Measures for Urban and Industrial Waste
Case Studies and Success Stories
1. Policy and Regulatory Framework:
o Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016: Mandates source segregation, 1. Indore, Madhya Pradesh: Ranked as India’s cleanest city for several years under the
decentralized waste processing, and scientific landfill management. It Swachh Survekshan survey, Indore has implemented a comprehensive waste
promotes the recycling of non-biodegradable waste and the composting of management system focusing on source segregation, decentralized processing, and
organic waste. public participation.
2. Panaji, Goa: The city has achieved a zero waste-to-landfill goal by implementing Air Quality Index (AQI) color codes, ranges, and parameters as defined by the Central
strict waste segregation, recycling, and composting practices. Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in India:
3. Tamil Nadu’s Bio-mining Initiative: The state has successfully undertaken bio-
mining to reclaim landfill sites, recovering valuable resources and reducing the AQI Color
environmental impact. Category Health Implications Suggested Precautions
Range Code
0–50 Good Green Minimal impact. No precautions needed.
Light Minor breathing discomfort People with respiratory issues
51–100 Satisfactory
Green to sensitive people. should avoid heavy exertion.
Breathing discomfort to the Sensitive individuals should
101– Moderately
Yellow people with lung disease, avoid prolonged outdoor
200 Polluted
children, and older adults. exertion.
Breathing discomfort to People with heart or lung
201– people on prolonged disease, children, and older
Poor Orange
300 exposure, and discomfort to adults should avoid prolonged
people with heart disease. exertion outdoors.
Respiratory illness on Avoid outdoor activities;
301–
Very Poor Red prolonged exposure; affects sensitive groups should stay
400
healthy people. indoors.
Everyone should avoid outdoor
Affects healthy people and
activity; sensitive groups
401– seriously impacts those with
Severe Maroon should remain indoors and
500 existing diseases;
keep physical activity levels
emergency conditions.
low.

Parameters Considered for AQI in India:

• PM2.5 (Particulate Matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less)

• PM10 (Particulate Matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less)
• NO₂ (Nitrogen Dioxide)
• SO₂ (Sulfur Dioxide)
• CO (Carbon Monoxide)
• O₃ (Ground-level Ozone)
• NH₃ (Ammonia)
• Pb (Lead)

These parameters are measured across various locations to determine the AQI, which reflects
the quality of air and the potential impact on public health.