Classify different types of waste
Packaging waste and recyclables
The tables below list waste codes for common packaging and domestic type recyclable wastes.
You can find additional codes for other waste and advice on how to apply these codes in the technical guidance on waste.
Containers must be empty to be classified as packaging waste.
| Waste status | Plastic | Metal | Paper and cardboard | Glass | Textiles | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean packaging | Non-hazardous | 15-01-02 | 15-01-04 | 15-01-01 | 15-01-07 | 15-01-09 |
| Other clean material, unmixed - excluding packaging | Non-hazardous | 20-01-39 | 20-01-40 | 20-01-01 | 20-01-02 | 20-01-11 |
| Mixed clean material - including packaging | Non-hazardous | 15-01-02 and 20-01-39 | 15-01-04 and 20-01-40 | 15-01-01 and 20-01-01 | 15-01-07 and 20-01-02 | 15-01-09 and 20-01-10 |
| Empty packaging contaminated with residues of hazardous substances, for example paint cans, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) and drums | Hazardous | 15-01-10* | 15-01-10* | 15-01-10* | 15-01-10* | 15-01-10* |
| Empty packaging contaminated with residues of non-hazardous substances | Non-hazardous | 15-01-02 | 15-01-04 | 15-01-01 | 15-01-07 | 15-01-09 |
(*) An asterisk at the end of a code means the waste is hazardous.