When will the new Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026 come into force?

The new Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, will come into force on April 1, 2026.

What is the primary focus of the new SWM Rules, 2026 compared to the 2016 rules?

The 2026 rules firmly focus on increasing the responsibilities of bulk waste generators and promoting a circular economy, while discouraging sending waste to landfills.

What actions must bulk waste generators take under the SWM Rules, 2026?

Bulk generators must register on a centralized portal, submit waste accounting, segregate waste into four streams, and aim for on-site processing or procure certifications from local bodies.

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New Waste Rules: Landfills Out, Circular Economy In

29 Jan

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Summary

New Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, replace 2016 rules.
Focus shifts to waste reduction, reuse, and at-source processing.
Bulk generators like housing societies face new accountability.

New Waste Rules: Landfills Out, Circular Economy In

India has introduced the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026, set to take effect on April 1, 2026. These new regulations supersede the SWM Rules of 2016 and overhaul existing garbage management frameworks for urban and rural local bodies.

The primary objective is to promote waste reduction, reuse, and at-source processing, moving away from heavy reliance on landfills. While retaining principles like source segregation and door-to-door collection from the 2016 rules, the 2026 rules increase accountability for bulk waste generators.

Bulk generators, encompassing residential societies and large institutions, will now be required to register on a centralized portal and submit waste accounting. They must segregate waste into four streams and aim for on-site wet-waste processing. Compliance can be proven through local body certifications, with non-compliance potentially leading to compensation.