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What is an EWC Code?
An EWC code (European Waste Catalogue code) is a 6-digit number that classifies the type of waste being transferred. Every Waste Transfer Note (WTN) in the UK must include an accurate EWC code. Using the wrong code is a compliance failure that can result in fines of up to £5,000 per offence from the Environment Agency.
EWC codes are also referred to as List of Wastes (LoW) codes in official EA documentation — the two terms refer to the same classification system with identical codes.
What Does an Asterisk (*) Mean on an EWC Code?
An asterisk at the end of an EWC code — for example 17 05 03* (contaminated soil) — indicates the waste is classified as hazardous under UK law.
Hazardous waste cannot be transferred on a standard WTN. It requires a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note with additional legal requirements including pre-notification in some cases. If a waste type in this list has a starred code, stop and use the appropriate consignment note before proceeding.
How EWC Codes Appear on Waste Transfer Notes
On a standard WTN, the EWC code is recorded in Part D (Waste Description) alongside a written description of the waste, its physical form, and quantity. Both the code and the written description must be accurate — a correct code with a vague or misleading description is still a compliance risk.
WasteBolt includes the complete EWC catalogue built into the WTN creation flow — search and select rather than typing codes manually, eliminating the most common source of transcription errors.
EWC Codes and Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) 2026
From October 2026, mandatory Digital Waste Tracking (DWT) will require every waste movement to be recorded in the DEFRA national system. EWC codes will be a required field for every submission. Businesses already using accurate EWC codes on digital WTNs will have significantly less preparation work when their DWT mandate arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are EWC codes the same as LoW codes?
Yes. EWC codes and List of Wastes (LoW) codes are the same classification system. The European Waste Catalogue was adopted into UK law and is sometimes referred to as the List of Wastes in official EA documentation. The 6-digit codes and descriptions are identical between the two.
How do I know if my waste is hazardous?
Check whether the EWC code for your waste type ends with an asterisk (*). If it does, the waste is classified as hazardous and requires a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note. If you are unsure whether a specific waste stream is hazardous, contact the Environment Agency (England/Wales), SEPA (Scotland), or NIEA (Northern Ireland) for guidance.
What happens if I use the wrong EWC code on a WTN?
Using an incorrect EWC code is a Duty of Care compliance failure. The Environment Agency can issue fines of up to £5,000 per offence in a Magistrates' Court, or an unlimited fine in a Crown Court for persistent non-compliance. Always verify the code is correct for the actual waste being transferred.
Can I use this EWC code list for free?
Yes — this search tool is completely free and requires no sign-up. It covers the complete European Waste Catalogue as used in the UK for Waste Transfer Notes, Hazardous Waste Consignment Notes, and Digital Waste Tracking submissions.
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