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Plastic EWC code 17 02 03 for building plastic, 15 01 02 for plastic packaging such as wrap.

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  • Based on the UK List of Waste and GOV.UK guidance
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Plastic: 4 codes.

Plastic

  • Not hazardousConstruction and demolition

    Plastic from building work, NOT packaging

  • HazardousConstruction and demolition

    Wood, glass or plastic contaminated with hazardous substances

    If it isn’t hazardous: , or .

  • Not hazardousPackaging

    Empty plastic packaging such as wrap, bags and tubs

  • Not hazardousHousehold-type, collected separately

    Plastic that isn’t packaging or from building work

41 more codes in the full list mention “Plastic”

  • Not hazardousVehicles and vehicle repair

    Plastic

  • Not hazardousFarming and forestry

    Waste plastics

  • Not hazardousPlastics and rubber making

    Waste plastic

  • Not hazardousMetal and plastic machining

    Plastics shavings and turnings

  • Not hazardousWaste sorting and treatment

    Plastic and rubber

  • Not hazardousConstruction and demolition

    Wood

    If it’s hazardous: .

  • Not hazardousConstruction and demolition

    Glass

    If it’s hazardous: .

  • HazardousPlastics and rubber making

    Aqueous washing liquids and mother liquors

Is plastic waste 17 02 03 or 15 01 02?

Wrap, bags and empty tubs
15 01 02, plastic packaging.
Pipe offcuts, sheet and other building plastic
17 02 03, or 17 02 04* if contaminated with hazardous substances.

17 02 03 and 17 02 04* are a pair: if you can’t find out what’s on the plastic, use 17 02 04*.

EWC code for plastic from an office or shop

Plastic that isn’t packaging, collected separately, is 20 01 39. If it’s mixed with plastic packaging, use both 15 01 02 and 20 01 39. In England, workplaces must keep plastic out of general waste, along with metal, glass, paper and card: see dry mixed recycling.

Are empty chemical or sealant tubs hazardous waste?

They are if a hazardous residue is left in them: 15 01 10*. Check the product’s safety data sheet. Empty tubs with a residue that isn’t hazardous stay 15 01 02. A tub only counts as packaging once it’s empty; one still holding sealant or chemical is coded as that product.

Sources