MoEF&CC proposes stricter Eco-Mark norms for Paper and Paperboard products; New draft rules focus on fibre, chemicals, and compliance

MoEF&CC proposes stricter Eco-Mark norms for Paper and Paperboard products; New draft rules focus on fibre, chemicals, and compliance

- India Strengthens Green Certification Framework for Paper and Paperboard
- Eco-mark certified products will also have to carry a QR code detailing the criteria under which the product has been certified.

The Pulp and Paper Times

New Delhi, June 2026: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has issued a draft notification proposing significant amendments to the Eco-mark Rules, 2024, introducing stricter environmental and sustainability criteria for paper and paperboard products. The notification, published in the Official Gazette on 8 June 2026, will remain open for public comments for 60 days before final consideration by the Central Government.

Eco-Mark Framework Strengthened

The draft amendments cover multiple product categories, including paints, batteries, paper, wood and wood-substitute products, fire extinguishers, and coir products. For the paper sector, the proposed criteria represent one of the most comprehensive sustainability frameworks introduced by the government in recent years.

Under the Eco-mark Rules, 2024, products seeking the Eco-mark label must already possess relevant BIS certification or conformity and comply with applicable Quality Control Orders. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has been tasked with periodically reviewing and updating Eco-mark criteria based on technological advancements and global best practices.

New Requirements for Paper Manufacturers

The proposed criteria require all paper manufacturers applying for Eco-mark certification to comply with relevant Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specifications and obtain mandatory environmental clearances under the Water Act, 1974, Air Act, 1981, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

In a notable move toward consumer transparency, Eco-mark certified products will also have to carry a QR code detailing the criteria under which the product has been certified.

Focus on Sustainable Fibre Sources

The notification places strong emphasis on sustainable raw materials.
Eco-mark eligibility will be available to:
•  Agro-residue-based paper containing at least 60% pulp from materials such as agro residues, cotton linters, and cotton rags.
• Wood-based paper containing at least 70% pulp from bamboo, hardwood, softwood, and reed sourced domestically from agro/farm forestry and certified under the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme.
•  Recycled paper and paperboard made from at least 80% wastepaper or recovered paper.

Stricter Chemical and Bleaching Norms

The draft rules propose tighter controls on chemicals used in paper manufacturing.
Key provisions include:
•  Mandatory Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) or Total Chlorine Free (TCF) bleaching in Wood / Agro based pulp & paper manufacturing unit.
•  AOX limit in pulp below 0.5 mg/g.
•  Ban on carcinogenic and mutagenic biocides.
•  Pentachlorophenol (PCP) in paper products limited to 0.15 mg/kg.
•  Prohibition of azo dyes and benzidine-based dyes in coloured paper and paperboard.

Food-Contact and Packaging Papers Under Scrutiny

For food-contact applications, the ministry has proposed additional safeguards.

Greaseproof and food-contact papers must not contain PFAS/PFOA, while Optical Brightening Agents (OBA) will be prohibited in food-contact paper.

Paper products used for food packaging and delivery must comply with BIS limits for heavy metals, PCP, PCB, and other contaminants.

New Rules for Tissue and Handmade Papers

Hygiene and tissue paper products will face restrictions on quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC).

For handmade drawing papers, the draft proposes:
•  Ban on gelatine-based sizing agents containing formaldehyde.
•  Handmade drawing paper must be acid-free paper (pH 7 or higher).
•  Blotting papers to maintain near-neutral pH (6–8).

Major Push for Pollution Control

The notification also introduces stringent operational requirements for mills.

Wood and agro-based pulp mills must have chemical recovery facilities to achieve zero black-liquor discharge, while wastepaper-based mills must install fibre recovery systems.

Agro-based mills will need wastewater pre-treatment systems capable of achieving at least 75% reduction in organic load.

All units must comply with prescribed effluent and emission standards and submit laboratory reports from EPA/NABL-accredited laboratories along with inspection records from state pollution control authorities.

Online Monitoring and Waste Utilisation

Another important proposal is the mandatory installation of Online Continuous Effluent and Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) connected to CPCB and State Pollution Control Board servers.

Manufacturers will also be required to ensure that at least 70% of hazardous waste is utilised or recycled and submit a three-year recycling plan.

Public Comments Invited
The Ministry has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders within 60 days of the Gazette publication. Comments can be submitted to the Joint Secretary, MoEF&CC, New Delhi, or via the ministry's designated email address.

The final notification, once approved, could become one of the most comprehensive environmental certification frameworks for paper and paperboard manufacturing in India.

Industry Impact

The proposed amendments are likely to have far-reaching implications for India's paper industry. Mills using high recycled fibre content, certified agro-forestry pulp, cleaner bleaching technologies, and advanced wastewater treatment systems may gain a competitive advantage in the growing market for sustainable packaging and paper products.
At the same time, the stricter requirements on PFAS, dyes, hazardous waste utilization, and online monitoring could require additional investments by manufacturers seeking Eco-mark certification.

“This notification signals a policy push toward decarbonization, resource efficiency, and circular economy practices. Paper manufacturers will need to align with recycled-content targets, renewable energy adoption, and transparent labeling, reinforcing India's commitment to sustainable production. The government has invited public comments within 60 days of the notification. This is a crucial opportunity for industry stakeholders to shape the future of Eco-mark certification in India.”  Mr. Bipin Thapliyal, Sec. Gen, IARPMA said on LinkedIn. 
 

Published at : Jun 22, 2026 08:57 AM (IST)

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