“Leveraging India’s Environmental and Safety Regulatory Framework for Ethical Sourcing and Responsible Manufacturing in the Tire Industry.”
Authors: R. K. Nagaraju1, Prof. R. Ramarao2, Mohan B Waman3
1Visiting Professor, Centre for Environment, JNTU, Hyderabad
2Retired Professor, Vignana Jyothi Institute of Business Management, Hyderabad
3Principal, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Akurdi, Pune
Corresponding author: R. K. Nagaraju
Email: rknraju@gmail.com
Abstract
India’s environmental and safety regulatory framework forms the cornerstone for ethical sourcing and responsible manufacturing, especially in high-impact sectors such as the tyre industry. This study employs a descriptive qualitative methodology, analysing policy documents, industry reports, and case studies to evaluate the effectiveness of regulations including the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, and the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR). The research investigates the adoption of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and its integration with national policies, revealing that strict regulatory compliance fosters transparent supply chains, mitigates environmental degradation, and enhances brand reputation. However, results indicate persistent challenges, such as uneven enforcement, elevated compliance costs, and limited supplier capacity, which impede broader industry progress. The discussion highlights the need for strategies that combine regulatory frameworks with ethical sourcing, focusing on capacity building, technological innovation, and increased transparency. Limitations include the variability in policy implementation and restricted availability of comprehensive industry data. The paper concludes by recommending alignment of EPR with global standards like ISO 20400 and the promotion of public-private partnerships to strengthen sustainable practices across India’s tyre sector.
Keywords: Ethical Sourcing, Responsible Manufacturing, Tire Industry, Extended Producer Responsibility, Environmental Regulation, India
