Waste management comprises of an integrated and collective activity of segregation, collection, transportation, recycling and disposal of waste. Improper waste management is one of the main causes of environmental pollution. In India, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) is responsible for regulating and managing waste. One of the main activities of the ministry is prevention and control of pollution, and it has released many rules over the years to safely handle and dispose waste to ensure a clean environment. The Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards ensure proper management of rules set forth by the MoEF&CC.

Waste is broadly categorized as municipal, industrial and hazardous waste, based on their origin and composition. Specific rules and compliances are to be followed for safe handling and disposal of the various types of waste. Most biomedical waste is non-infectious and is managed as municipal solid waste while hazardous and infectious biomedical waste is not mixed with other waste and must be treated in dedicated facilities. Key Waste Management Rules are given below.

1. Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016
2. Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016
3. E-waste (Management) Rules, 2016
4. Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules,2016
5. Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016
6. Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016

To meet the present needs and reserve the rights of development for future generations, a set of waste management strategies integrating the concept of sustainable development should be developed to achieve the goal of protecting the environment while yielding economic and social benefits. According to the globally accepted waste management hierarchy, a priority order for waste management strategies is prevention, reuse, recycling, and recovery; disposal would be the last resort for waste management. In this connection, institutional commitment from companies have an important role in helping societies become more sustainable in waste management.

There is an increased focus from regulators towards the need for environment compliance and sustainable environment. In order to avoid adverse consequences such as revocation of authorization or prosecution, it is advisable that periodic internal audits and quality checks are conducted for identifying non-compliances and addressing them efficiently. Further, compliance with applicable environmental laws works to build brand image and product value, for acting in an environmentally responsible manner.

This webinar will provide an overview of the Waste Management Rules & Regulations and different approaches & best practices in Waste Management in biopharmaceutical sector by a panel of domain experts and industry leaders.