Free reference tool

EWC code lookup

Search all 842 European Waste Catalogue (List of Waste) codes by plain description or number — 408 of them hazardous. Type how the material is actually described on site (“bricks”, “rubble”, “plasterboard”) and get the right six-digit code.

What is an EWC code?

An EWC (European Waste Catalogue) code — also called a List of Waste code — is the six-digit code used to classify a type of waste in the UK. It goes on every waste transfer note, hazardous waste consignment note and Digital Waste Tracking record. The first two digits are the chapter (the industry or process the waste comes from), the next two the sub-chapter, and the last two the specific waste. Codes marked with an asterisk (*) are hazardous.

Browse EWC codes by chapter

01Wastes resulting from exploration, mining, quarrying, and physical and chemical treatment of minerals

02Wastes from agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture, forestry, hunting and fishing, food preparation and processing

06Wastes from inorganic chemical processes

07Wastes from organic chemical processes

08Wastes from the manufacture, formulation, supply and use (MFSU) of coatings (paints, varnishes and vitreous enamels), adhesives, sealants and printing inks

10Wastes from thermal processes

13OIL WASTES AND WASTES OF LIQUID FUELS (except edible oils, and those in chapters 05, 12 and 19)

16Wastes not otherwise specified in the list

17Construction and demolition wastes (including excavated soil from contaminated sites)

19Wastes from waste management facilities, off-site waste water treatment plants and the preparation of water intended for human consumption and water for industrial use

20Municipal wastes (household waste and similar commercial, industrial and institutional wastes) including separately collected fractions