{"id":1551,"date":"2026-02-12T11:42:44","date_gmt":"2026-02-12T11:42:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/darsa.it\/classification-guide-how-to-correctly-assign-eer-cer-code-to-a-waste\/"},"modified":"2026-05-29T09:41:22","modified_gmt":"2026-05-29T09:41:22","slug":"classification-guide-how-to-correctly-assign-eer-cer-code-to-a-waste","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/darsa.it\/en\/classification-guide-how-to-correctly-assign-eer-cer-code-to-a-waste\/","title":{"rendered":"CLASSIFICATION GUIDE: HOW TO CORRECTLY ASSIGN EER (CER) CODE TO A WASTE."},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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In industrial waste management, the correct assignment of the EER code-European Waste List-also known by the old wording as the EWC code-is one of the most critical bureaucratic tasks for a company. Incorrect classification exposes the business to heavy administrative and criminal penalties. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n

Below, in this brief guide, our Technical Managers Darsa Ltd. will explain how to correctly assign a waste identification code, in accordance with current regulations.<\/p>\n\n

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What is the EER code and why is it critical?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

The EER code, commonly known as the EWC, is a six-digit number that uniquely identifies each type of waste at the European level.<\/strong> We could say it is the “identity card” of the material and determines its subsequent management, transport and disposal or valorization.In other words, the EER code defines the origin and nature of the waste.<\/p>\n\n

Assigning the correct code is entirely the responsibility of the waste producer,<\/strong> who must ensure the veracity of the classification, through: knowledge of the production process and, if necessary as is the case with hazardous waste, chemical analysis.<\/p>\n\n

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The structure of the European Waste List.<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

The codes are organized into 20 main classes, also called chapters, based on the field of origin. The number sequence is as follows: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n

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  1. first two digits<\/strong> \u2192 class or chapter \u2192 identify the industry sector or activity that generated the waste, i.e., the production sector<\/strong>;<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. second two digits<\/strong> \u2192 subclass or subchapter \u2192 specify the production process within that given sector, i.e., indicate the detailed process or processing that generated the scrap<\/strong>;<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. last two digits<\/strong> \u2192 category \u2192 tell the exact nature of the waste, allowing identification of the specific type of waste.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n

    The possible presence of an asterisk after the six digits indicates that the waste is classified as hazardous (ex: xx.xx.xx*<\/a>)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

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    Operational steps for EER code assignment.<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

    As indicated by environmental regulations in order to classify a waste<\/strong> without error, the producer of the waste<\/strong>, must necessarily follow a specific order:<\/p>\n\n