India’s Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorizes industries (Red, Orange, Green, White) by Pollution Index (PI) score (based on air/water pollution & waste) to control pollution, promote sustainable development, and manage environmental standards.
Red being highly polluting (score 60+), needing strict NOCs (Consent to Establish/Operate) for short durations, Orange (41-59) moderately polluting with ETPs/scrubbers, Green (21-40) low polluting with long consent periods, and White practically non-polluting, often exempt from NOCs, all for better pollution control and resource management.
This classification broadly plays a vital role in determining whether an industry requires a Pollution No Objection Certificate (NOC)—also known as Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO)—from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB).
What Is a Pollution NOC?
SPCB gives its nod to the industry to set up and operate while complying with environmental norms. The NOC ensures that industrial activities do not create excessive air, water, or land pollution. The level of scrutiny and compliance requirements depends largely on the industry’s category. A Pollution NOC is an official approval granted by the SPCB.
Let’s take a glance at green, orange and red categories issued by CPCB:
Green category industries
The category refers to the industries that generate minimal pollution and fall under the environmentally friendly category. They generally do not involve hazardous chemicals or significant emissions. Assembly units, handicrafts, organic food processing without preservatives, and solar power equipment manufacturing are some examples of such industries.
Green category industries usually face simplified approval procedures, and in some states, they may be exempt from obtaining a Pollution NOC. However, they are required to comply with general environmental guidelines and local regulations.
Orange category industries
These are considered to have a moderate pollution level and do not pose severe environmental risks. However, these industries need careful monitoring and pollution control measures. Textile processing units, small pharmaceutical units, food and beverage manufacturing, printing presses, and automobile service centers are some of the examples of the Orange category.
The Orange industries are required to get both CTE before installation and CTO before starting operations. The SPCB evaluates factors such as wastewater discharge, air emissions, waste disposal methods, and noise levels before approving NOC. Regular compliance and periodic renewals are mandatory.
Red category industries
The highly polluting industries come under this category. They pose significant environmental and health risks. Examples include chemical manufacturing units, tanneries, cement plants, oil refineries, dyeing units, and large-scale metal processing industries.
Obtaining a Pollution NOC is a must for Red category industries. Authorities conduct detailed environmental impact assessments, site inspections, and compliance checks. The installation of advanced pollution control systems and the submission of frequent reports are mandatory. May face legal action, penalties, or a closure notice for violation of rules and regulations.
Significance of Green, Orange and Red categories:
The Green, Orange, and Red classification helps regulatory authorities focus resources on high-risk industries while promoting ease of doing business for low-impact units. However, understanding the category of the industry is essential for planning costs, timelines, and compliance requirements. Knowing your industry category helps you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Conclusion
Drishti Consultancy is available with its services across Delhi, Noida, Faridabad, Gurugram, and Palwal. if you are the owner of a factory or manufacturing unit that requires a Pollution NOC or have queries regarding the categories. Our experts will guide you and help to obtaining an NOC is mandatory. Mail us – drishticonsultancyservices@outlook.com or call us 9971183483.