Every waste type in the UK must be assigned an official European Waste Catalogue (EWC) code. Use Quick Consign’s free EWC Code Finder to identify your waste code quickly and stay compliant with Environment Agency regulations.
Correctly identifying your waste isn’t just good practice – it’s a legal requirement.
EWC codes ensure every type of waste is handled, stored, transported, and reported safely and compliantly.
With Quick Consign, you can:
Tired of searching codes every time? Quick Consign links your chosen EWC codes directly to your digital consignment notes and reports.
Our system connects seamlessly via API to the Environment Agency, keeping you compliant ahead of the April 2026 Digital Waste Tracking deadline.
| Waste Type | EWC Code | Hazardous |
| General waste | 20 03 01 | No |
| Food waste | 20 01 08 | No |
| Plasterboard | 17 08 02 | No |
| Asbestos waste | 17 06 05 | Yes |
| Green waste | 20 02 01 | No |
An EWC code is a six-digit number from the European Waste Catalogue used to classify different types of waste across the UK and EU.
Yes. The Environment Agency requires that all waste is classified with the correct EWC code before it’s moved or treated.
Any business that produces, transports, or handles waste must use the correct EWC code on consignment and transfer notes.
Use our free EWC Code Finder above or speak to your waste contractor. Quick Consign’s software automatically stores your codes for future use.