Environmental Chemistry — Tech Evolutions

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
Not a direct amendment to a single act, but a significant policy shift	2016 (Plastic Waste Management Rules)	The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 (and subsequent amendments) introduced extended producer responsibility (EPR) for plastic waste, aiming to manage plastic pollution. This involves chemical understanding of polymer degradation, recycling processes, and the environmental impact of microplastics.	Shifted responsibility for plastic waste management to producers, importers, and brand owners. Promoted chemical recycling and material recovery, reducing plastic load in landfills and water bodies. Required chemical analysis of plastic types for effective segregation and processing.
Not a direct amendment, but a significant international agreement adopted by India	2016 (Kigali Amendment to Montreal Protocol)	The Kigali Amendment aims to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases used as refrigerants. While not ozone-depleting, HFCs have high Global Warming Potential. This amendment is a chemical policy response to climate change.	Mandates a global phase-down of HFCs, significantly contributing to climate change mitigation. Requires chemical innovation to develop alternative refrigerants with lower GWP. India committed to a phased reduction, impacting industrial chemistry and refrigeration technologies.