EWC Codes: What They Are, Their History and Stakeholder Impact

EWC Codes: What They Are, Their History and Stakeholder Impact

Waste management across the European Union is based on a harmonised classification known as the EWC – European Waste Catalogue.
EWC codes are six-digit numbers assigned to each type of waste to ensure proper identification, registration, transport and treatment.

History and European context

The EWC was established under Commission Decision 2000/532/EC, consolidating previous lists into a single system for all Member States.
The aim was to eliminate fragmentation, where each country had its own classifications, making cross-border control and statistics difficult.

Since then, the list has been updated regularly to cover new waste streams, industrial processes, and stricter definitions of hazardous waste.

What are EWC Codes?

Each waste stream is given a six-digit code indicating:

• The origin of the waste (activity or process).
• The material type (plastic, metal, paper, sludge, solvents, etc.).
• Whether the waste is considered hazardous (marked with an asterisk *).

Examples:

• 20 01 01 → Paper and cardboard from separate collection.
• 17 05 03* → Soil and stones containing hazardous substances.

Impact on stakeholders

Companies (SMEs and large industries)

• Must register all generated waste using the correct EWC codes.
• Report through national systems (e.g., electronic registers, transport permits).
• Required for environmental audits and ISO certifications.

Municipalities and public entities

• Use EWC codes to classify municipal, organic, mixed and hazardous waste.
• Provide the basis for recycling targets and reporting to national agencies and the EU.

Waste operators

• Can only accept, transport and process waste accompanied by the correct EWC code.
• Without the code, the operation cannot be legally documented.

Citizens

• Indirectly benefit from transparency and traceability.
• Household waste separated at source (paper, bio, glass, etc.) is classified using EWC codes.

Structure of the European Waste Catalogue

The catalogue is divided into chapters (first two digits) according to the origin of the waste.
Within each chapter there are subcategories and finally the six-digit code.

Example chapters:

• Chapter 15: Packaging waste.
• Chapter 17: Construction and demolition waste.
• Chapter 19: Waste from treatment facilities.
• Chapter 20: Municipal waste.

Practical examples of EWC Codes

* The asterisk indicates hazardous waste.

Why EWC Codes matter

• Ensure legal compliance and avoid fines.
• Enable traceability from waste producer to treatment facility.
• Support circular economy monitoring by quantifying material flows.
• Required in public tenders and environmental certifications.

Conclusion

EWC codes are the foundation of waste management across the European Union.
Correct use is essential for companies, municipalities, operators and citizens to ensure compliance, transparency and measurable progress in the circular economy.

P7CO® EcoResupply integrates the EWC code system and supports stakeholders in their daily use, simplifying legal obligations, reinforcing traceability and creating value for sustainability.

Need help with EWC codes or compliance?

If your company or municipality needs assistance with the correct application of EWC codes, reporting (e.g., registers, transport permits) or circular economy practices, talk to us.

Contact us here and discover how P7CO® EcoResupply can support your organisation with compliance, sustainability and operational efficiency.