The Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has issued a circular dated July 26, 2025, providing updated classification and regulatory guidance for digital printing units in the state. This move aligns with directions issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and existing state-level bans on certain materials used in flex printing.
🔍 Background and Classification Update:
As per CPCB’s revised classification of industrial sectors under Red, Orange, Green, White, and Blue categories, “Digital Printing on flex/vinyl, PVC etc. (more than 5 machines)” falls under the Green category (Sl. No. 124 of the revised list).
Following this, KSPCB had issued an earlier clarification (Circular dated May 14, 2025), stating:
“Digital printing units which do not involve any wastewater generation shall apply for consent under the sector Digital Printing on flex /vinyl, PVC etc. (more than 5 machines) under the Green category. Units with 5 or fewer machines do not require consent from the Board.”
🧾 Material Use Regulation:
In line with Kerala Government Orders:
- GO No. 111/2019/LSGD dated 29.08.2019
- GO No. 639/2023/LSGD dated 17.03.2023
The use of the following materials is strictly banned in digital printing and hoarding:
❌ PVC flex
❌ Polyester
❌ Nylon
❌ Korean cloth
❌ Cloth with plastic coating
Only approved eco-friendly materials may be used for digital printing.
🆕 Revised Sector Name:
In accordance with the above bans and CPCB classifications, the sector name is officially revised to:
“Digital Printing in banners of approved material (more than 5 machines)”
📌 Key Points for Digital Printing Units:
- ✅ Consent Required: Only if the unit has more than 5 machines
- ✅ Must use approved materials only (non-plastic-based)
- ❌ Units using banned materials or having 5 or fewer machines do not qualify for consent
- 🔄 Classification is under Green Category (if no wastewater generation)
🏛️ Compliance Required:
KSPCB has directed all digital printing operators to strictly adhere to these classifications and material usage restrictions, failing which regulatory actions under environmental protection laws may be initiated.