Business waste reference
EWC Code Finder
Search EWC waste codes, understand absolute and mirror entries, and use the official Environment Agency register to check a waste carrier.
Waste classification enquiry
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Choosing an EWC code for business waste
The List of Waste (LoW), often referred to as the European Waste Catalogue (EWC), uses six-digit codes to describe waste. The first two digits identify a chapter. The activity or process that produced the waste matters because similar materials can fall under different chapters when they arise from different sources.
Search results can narrow the options, but they do not replace the coding sequence in WM3 or the evidence needed to classify and describe the waste. Record the process that produced the waste, the material involved and any known contaminants.
Absolute and mirror waste entries
An absolute hazardous entry means waste that fits that entry is hazardous. An absolute non-hazardous entry is normally non-hazardous if the waste fits the entry, but WM3 notes exceptions where linked or related entries must also be considered.
Mirror entries require assessment to determine which entry applies. The assessment may use a safety data sheet where appropriate, knowledge of a well-understood process, or representative sampling and analysis. WM3 requires reasonable efforts to determine the composition of the waste.
A hazardous List of Waste entry is marked with an asterisk. An entry without an asterisk is not necessarily the correct code for the waste; linked entries and the WM3 coding sequence still need to be considered. Where relevant, WM3 also requires persistent organic pollutants to be considered in the assessment.
Waste transfer and consignment paperwork
For non-hazardous business waste in England, complete a waste transfer note or another document containing the required information, and describe the waste accurately. For hazardous waste in England, follow the consignment note requirements that apply to the movement.
Check that the carrier is registered and that the receiving site is authorised to accept the waste. A waste carrier registration is not a permit or other authorisation for a receiving site. Use the official Environment Agency register to check a carrier’s registration.
Records for a waste assessment
Keep the source process, relevant product information and any analysis used in the classification together. Identify separate waste streams clearly where they arise from different processes or materials.
For a classification enquiry, describe what produced the waste and where the uncertainty lies. The waste-code library holds the full searchable reference and selected guides. The WM3 source explains the assessment procedure. The WM3 reference here is the Great Britain edition; the paperwork summary and linked carrier register are for England. Check the appropriate regulator’s requirements for work elsewhere.
Waste-code questions
Can I choose a code to make waste non-hazardous?
No. The source, description and applicable assessment determine which entry fits. Selecting a non-hazardous code cannot change the composition or hazardous properties of a waste.
Who is responsible for the waste code?
The producer or holder must ensure that the waste is classified and described correctly. If you are unsure, WM3 advises seeking advice from a competent person. They will need accurate information about the waste and how it arose.
Must I register to carry my own business waste?
In England, you must register as a waste carrier if you carry your own business waste regularly. The registration tier depends on the waste and activity. Check the relevant regulator's guidance for work elsewhere.
Does a carrier registration mean the company can take my waste?
No. A waste carrier registration is not a permit for a receiving site. Check the business identity and registration, and confirm that the receiving site is authorised and willing to accept the actual waste.
Does the finder cover Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?
The code reference uses the Great Britain edition of WM3, which applies in England, Scotland and Wales. Northern Ireland publishes a separate WM3 edition. Movement and paperwork requirements differ by nation. The carrier link opens the Environment Agency register for England.
Sources and limits
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. WM3 descriptions and entry types are reference data; explanatory wording is ours. No official endorsement is implied. The carrier link opens the Environment Agency’s own register.
- WM3 waste classification technical guidance - List of Waste entries and assessment guidance for Great Britain.
- DAERA: Northern Ireland WM3 - Separate Northern Ireland waste classification guidance.
- GOV.UK: business waste responsibilities - England duty of care and transfer documentation.
- GOV.UK: hazardous waste - England hazardous waste responsibilities and national links.
- Environment Agency waste carriers register - Registration records for England.
- Open Government Licence v3.0 - WM3 public sector information reused with attribution.
Published by Environmental Services. Sources checked 13 September 2026. Editorial policy.
If a result looks wrong, please tell us so we can check the tool against its sources.
Unsure how to classify a waste?
Describe the material and the process that produced it.