Sofia Martinez
Plastic is everywhere, and recycling it is an important way to reduce waste and preserve resources. However, less than 10% of plastic waste generated worldwide has ever been recycled. One of the barriers to recycling plastic is a lack of awareness around the seven plastic recycling symbols, which represent different types of plastic and their distinct recycling instructions. The numbers inside the triangle, also known as the 'resin code', indicate the type of plastic used in the product and the chemicals used during processing. Symbol 7, often marked with the word OTHER, represents a diverse category of plastics that don't fit into the previous six categories, including bioplastics, acrylic, polycarbonate, and polylactic acid (PLA).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Resin Identification Code |
| Symbol | Number 7 |
| Other Names | OTHER, PLA |
| Description | A wide variety of plastics that don't fit into the previously numbered categories are lumped into this one, including bioplastics. |
| Examples | Acrylic plastic, polycarbonate plastic, polylactic fibers, nylon, fiberglass, three- and five-gallon water bottles, bullet-proof materials, sunglasses, DVDs, iPod and computer cases, signs and displays, certain food containers |
| Recyclability | Not easily recyclable. Only a few communities recycle any Code 7 plastics. |
| Health Concerns | Any plastic designated #7 is likely to leach BPA and/or BPS, both potent endocrine disruptors linked to interfering with proper mood, growth, development, sexual function, reproductive function, and puberty, among other essential human developmental processes. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic symbol 7 includes compostable plant-based resins
Plastic recycling is an important way to reduce waste and preserve resources. The seven plastic recycling symbols, introduced in 1988 by the Plastics Industry Trade Association (SPI), are a game-changer for identifying plastic types and their recycling potential. However, the symbols alone do not guarantee recyclability, as the ""chasing arrows"" symbol does not necessarily mean the product is recyclable. The number within the triangle helps identify the type of plastic used, and the appropriate disposal route must be determined accordingly.
Symbol #7, often marked with "OTHER" or "PLA", is a catch-all category for plastics not classified under symbols 1 through 6. This includes compostable plant-based resins, such as polylactic acid (PLA), which is made from plants and is carbon-neutral. While #7 PLA indicates a plant-based resin that can degrade under certain conditions, it does not degrade in landfills or the wild. Only a few communities recycle any Code 7 plastics, and they require processing at modern, high-rate composting facilities.
The inclusion of compostable resins in Symbol #7 can be confusing for consumers. The "chasing arrows" symbol, which previously outlined the number, has been modified to a solid line to distinguish resin codes from recycling symbols. This change emphasizes that not all resins are recyclable in all communities. Consumers must pay attention to their local recycling guidelines and determine which resins their community recycles before disposing of Symbol #7 plastics.
While Symbol #7 plastics may not be recyclable through traditional recycling programs, some specialized facilities accept compostable plastics. For example, McGill Compost accepts a wide variety of biodegradable materials, including compostable plastics, through industrial composting operations using high-rate processes. However, they caution that their process is highly controlled, and only a few compostable plastics are appropriate for backyard compost piles or municipal and commercial facilities. Consumers should consult their municipality's website or the manufacturer's website for specific instructions on recycling Symbol #7 plastics.
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Plastic symbol 7 products are rarely recycled
Plastic recycling is an important way to reduce waste and preserve resources. However, it can be easier said than done. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, of the seven billion tons of plastic waste generated globally so far, less than 10% has been recycled. One of the barriers to recycling plastic is a lack of awareness about the seven plastic recycling symbols, which represent different types of plastic and their distinct recycling instructions.
Plastic symbol 7, also known as "OTHER", includes a wide variety of plastics that don't fit into the first six categories. These include bioplastics, acrylic plastic, polycarbonate plastic, polylactic fibers, nylon, and fiberglass. Products stamped with a 7 are often made of multiple plastic types or other types of plastic that can't be easily recycled. They are considered "use at your own risk" due to their high levels of toxicity and rare recyclability in curbside programs.
The recycling symbol on plastic products is officially called a "resin identification code", and the numbers 1 to 7 help identify the type of plastic used. It is important to note that the presence of a resin code does not indicate the recyclability of a product. Plastic symbol 7 products are rarely recycled, and they often end up in landfills or contaminating other recycling streams.
To properly recycle plastic symbol 7 products, it is recommended to consult your municipality's website for specific instructions. These plastics may require processing at a modern, high-rate composting facility. It is also important to check your local recycling guidelines to ensure that non-recyclable items are not included in your recycling stream, as this can cost processors time and money, and may even result in the entire bag of items being sent to the landfill.
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Plastic symbol 7 products are toxic
Plastic symbol 7, also known as "OTHER", is a category that includes plastics that don't fit into the previous categories, such as bioplastics, polycarbonate, and polylactic acid (PLA). These plastics are considered "use at your own risk" due to their high levels of toxicity and rare recyclability. Products containing plastic symbol 7 include water bottles, bullet-proof materials, sunglasses, DVDs, computer cases, food containers, and nylon.
The dangers of plastic symbol 7 lie in the chemicals they may leach, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and/or BPS, which are potent endocrine disruptors. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health issues, including interference with mood, growth, development, sexual function, reproductive function, and puberty. They are also suspected of increasing the risk of adult reproductive cancers, obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Due to the health risks associated with plastic symbol 7, it is important to avoid using these products whenever possible. However, in a plastic-heavy society, complete avoidance can be challenging. To reduce the potential harm caused by these plastics, it is recommended to dispose of any food or drink-related products known to contain BPA and to be cautious when using or recycling them.
The presence of plastic symbol 7 products highlights the importance of understanding recycling symbols. While the chasing arrows symbol is commonly seen on plastic products, it does not indicate recyclability. Instead, the number inside, known as the resin code, represents the type of plastic and the chemicals used in its processing. By understanding these codes, consumers can make more informed choices to protect their health and the environment.
Overall, plastic symbol 7 products are toxic and should be used and disposed of with caution. While recycling is an important step in reducing waste, it is crucial to prioritize the health risks associated with certain plastics and take appropriate actions to minimize their impact.
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Plastic symbol 7 products are not accepted by most curbside recycling programs
Plastic symbol #7, also known as "OTHER", represents a diverse category of plastics that do not fit into the first six categories. These include, but are not limited to, acrylic plastic, polycarbonate plastic, polylactic fibres, nylon, fiberglass, and bioplastics. Products stamped with a 7 are often made of multiple plastic types or other hard-to-recycle plastics.
The presence of a resin code, such as the number 7, does not necessarily indicate that a product is recyclable. Plastic symbol #7 products, in particular, are not accepted by most curbside recycling programs due to their complex composition and potential health risks. These plastics are known to contain toxic chemicals that can interfere with essential human developmental processes and increase the risk of various health issues.
The complexity of recycling plastic symbol #7 products extends beyond their chemical composition. The recycling process for these items requires specialized handling and technology, making it costly and time-consuming. As a result, many recycling companies are not equipped to handle these items, and even a single misplaced container can contaminate and ruin an entire batch of recycling.
To properly recycle plastic symbol #7 products, individuals should consult their local municipality's guidelines and specific instructions. Some communities may offer modern, high-rate composting facilities capable of processing these items. However, it is essential to separate these items from other recyclables to avoid contamination.
While recycling plastic symbol #7 products can be challenging, it is not impossible. By taking the time to understand local recycling protocols, individuals can ensure that these items are disposed of correctly, reducing potential environmental harm and promoting a more sustainable future.
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Plastic symbol 7 products are made from multiple types of plastic
Plastic recycling is an important way to reduce waste and preserve resources. The presence of a resin code, also known as a resin identification code, on plastic products helps us identify the type of plastic used. However, the presence of a resin code does not indicate the recyclability of a product. The recycling code system was introduced by the Plastics Industry Trade Association (SPI) in 1988 to help identify plastic types and their recycling potential.
Products stamped with a 7 are often made from multiple plastic types or other types of plastic that cannot be easily recycled. Plastic symbol 7, also known as "OTHER", includes plastic types that don't fit into the first six categories. This includes acrylic plastic, polycarbonate plastic, polylactic fibres, nylon, and fiberglass.
Some products with plastic symbol 7 include three- and five-gallon water bottles, bullet-proof materials, sunglasses, DVDs, iPod and computer cases, signs and displays, and certain food containers.
It is important to note that plastic symbol 7 products are not widely recycled. They are considered a contaminant if placed in recycling bins for plastics 1-6. Therefore, it is recommended to check your municipality's recycling guidelines to determine if plastic symbol 7 products are accepted for recycling in your area. If not, it is best to dispose of them separately from your recyclable plastics.
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Frequently asked questions
The number 7 plastic recycling symbol, also known as "OTHER", represents "other plastics", which include but are not limited to acrylic plastic, polycarbonate plastic, polylactic fibres, nylon, and fiberglass.
The number inside the plastic recycling symbol, also known as the 'resin code', indicates the type of plastic used in the product, and the chemicals used during processing.
The plastics that can be recycled include PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate), which is used for soft drink bottles, mineral water containers, fruit juice containers, and cooking oil containers. HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is another plastic that can be recycled and is used for milk jugs, shampoo bottles, and detergent bottles.
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