New Solid Waste Rules: Mandatory Four-Stream Segregation from April 1

• Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced new Solid Waste Management Rules effective April 1.
• Mandatory four-stream segregation at source: wet, dry, sanitary, and special care waste.
• Bulk waste generators (e.g., large establishments, residential societies) have defined responsibilities for waste management.
• Rules promote decentralised waste management, reduce burden on urban local bodies, and allow user fees.
• Integrates circular economy principles, Extended Producer Responsibility, and 'Polluter Pays' for non-compliance.

Why It Matters: New rules mandate four-stream waste segregation from April 1, focusing on producer responsibility and compliance.