Type 7 Plastics

Type 7 plastic, also known as "other" or "miscellaneous" plastic, is an all inclusive category that includes plastics that do not fit into the other six categories. This category is often used for complex or layered plastics that cannot be easily sorted or recycled.

Type 7 plastic is found in a wide range of products, including sunglasses, DVDs, baby bottles, and some food containers. It can also be found in some medical equipment and electronics.

Recycling type 7 plastic can be difficult, as it can be made up of a variety of different types of plastics that need to be separated. However, some types of type 7 plastic, such as polycarbonate and some types of biodegradable plastics, can be recycled. It is important to check with your local recycling facility to see if they accept type 7 plastics and, if so, how they should be prepared for recycling.

Type 7 plastic is often difficult to recycle and can take a long time to decompose. Many type 7 plastics contain BPA (Bisphenol A), which is a chemical that can leach into food and drink and has been linked to health problems such as reproductive disorders and cancer. In addition, some type 7 plastics are made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource that contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

Reducing the consumption of type 7 plastics can be challenging, however, there are some steps you can take to reduce your use of type 7 plastics:

Choose products made from other types of plastic whenever possible. Look for products made from type 1 (PET), type 2 (HDPE), type 4 (LDPE), or type 5 (PP) plastics.

Avoid products that contain BPA. Look for products that are labeled BPA-free, or choose products made from other materials, such as glass or stainless steel.

Choose products with minimal packaging. Opt for products that are packaged in paper or cardboard rather than plastic.