Environment Ministry recognises 86 ‘white’ category industries as minimal polluters

The Union Environment Ministry has expanded the scope of ‘white’ category industries by identifying 86 sectors as minimal polluters that have least impact on water resources. The aim is to simplify environmental clearances for these sectors.

Sectors placed under the ‘white ‘category are recognised as generating negligible pollution, requiring minimal regulatory oversight compared to their counterparts in ‘orange’, ‘red’ or ‘green’ categories. This classification system serves as the cornerstone of India’s risk-based approach to environmental regulation, allowing authorities to focus resources on high-impact industries while facilitating ease of doing business for low-pollution sectors.

‘White’ category industries function without boilers, reactors, or other equipment that traditionally generates both air and water pollution.

The updated notification put emphasis on renewable energy and sustainability sectors, reflecting India’s ambitious climate commitments and its push toward a circular economy.

Solar power generation facilities utilising photovoltaic cells and wind power installations now enjoy ‘white’ category status. The ministry, through this classification, removes regulatory barriers that might otherwise slow the deployment of renewable energy capacity across the country.

Compressed biogas plants represent another significant inclusion in the sector. These facilities must utilise feedstock such as municipal solid waste, agricultural residue, energy crops, grass, weeds, animal waste or press mud while explicitly avoiding industrial or process waste.

Mini hydel power plants with capacity up to 25 megawatts have also gained ‘white’ category recognition, marking a policy shift. These small hydroelectric installations, which harness the energy of flowing water without requiring large dams or reservoirs, have long been promoted as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional power generation.

In the manufacturing sector light vehicle assembly operations, including bicycles, baby carriages, and other small non-motorised vehicles, gain recognition for their low environmental impact.

Medical oxygen production and the assembly of surgical and medical products qualify for ‘white’ category status, provided no effluent-generating processes are involved.

A diverse array of products, including floor polish, nail polish, hair oil, shampoo, tooth powder, toothpaste, perfume, and hand sanitisers, provided operations remain at micro and small scales have also been recognised as minimal polluters.

Small-scale restaurants, hotels without rooms, cloud kitchens, and resorts without stay facilities all receive white’ category classification, marking a significant shift in how the hospitality sector is regulated.

Railway sidings established solely for defense purposes receive ‘white’ category status, acknowledging their strategic importance and typically minimal operational footprint.