In the new classification, CPCB has classified a total of 419 sectors into Red (125), Orange (137), Green (94), White (54) and Blue (9) category.

• CPCB has followed a revised methodology based on Pollution Index (formulated in 2016 to harmonize criteria for classification of Industries) by assigning equal weightage to scores arising due to Water, Air and Hazardous waste. 

Key Features of the New Classification

• Blue category: Under Essential Environmental Services for management of waste generated from domestic/household activities. 
  • Essential Environmental Services are those facilities which are essential to control, abate and mitigate pollution generated from Domestic and Industrial activities.
• Classification of Compressed Biogas Plants (CBP): CBG plants based on various feedstock like municipal solid waste, agro-residue, energy crops/grass/weeds, etc having littering potential may be considered under blue category. 
  • CBG plants based on industrial or process waste will continue to be in red category.
• Incentives: In the form of extension of permits for the successful implementation of environmental management measures.