Activists ask govt to withdraw exemption for ‘white-category’ industries

New Delhi: Numerous civil society organizations, activists, and lawyers are annoyed with the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for granting exemptions to several “white-category” industries from mandatory environmental clearance. They argue that this decision was taken without proper assessment and may be harmful for air and water quality, and its impact would be dangerous on human health as well.

The group, under the banner of the National Alliance for Climate and Ecological Justice (NACEJ), has accused the government of prioritizing “ease of doing business” over environmental protection and public health, along with the rights of people and communities.

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The government issued two notifications in November 2024, exempting 39 industries categorized as ‘white-category’ industries after taking approval from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). These industries are classified to emit minimum pollution and include fly ash brick manufacturing, air cooler assembly, bicycle and baby carriage assembly, waste paper baling, tea blending and packing, and chalk making from plaster of Paris.

Experts believe that fly ash brick manufacturing is harmful for the environment as well as human health risks. Krithika A. Dinesh, an environmental law expert, pointed out that the government’s decision contradicts key environmental laws like the Water Act and Air Act and violates the principles of federal governance. She also highlighted that such policy changes should follow the Pre-Legislative Consultation Policy (2014), which requires prior public discussions before implementation.

The activists have been demanding the immediate removal of the exemption and calling for an assessment of the harmful impact of these industries. They emphasize that priority should be given to long-term sustainability and public health over business convenience.