What are group 7 plastics?

Understanding Group 7 Plastics: What You Need to Know

When you turn over a plastic container and see a "7" inside the recycling triangle, it can be confusing. Unlike the more straightforward recycling codes 1 through 6, group 7 is a catch-all category. It includes plastics that don’t fit into the other types—often because they’re made from a mix of materials that are tough, if not impossible, to separate during recycling.

Some items labeled with a 7 are made from combinations like polycarbonate blended with other resins, making them durable but difficult to process. Because these materials don’t melt at the same temperatures or behave the same way when reprocessed, many recycling facilities simply turn them away. As a result, most code 7 plastics end up in landfills, even if they’re tossed into the recycling bin.

Some plastics under this code, like clear polycarbonate (often used in reusable water bottles or eyewear lenses), can technically be recycled. However, the infrastructure to do so is still limited. Without widespread access to advanced recycling technology, these materials rarely get a second life.

What’s more, this category also includes bioplastics—plant-based materials marketed as eco-friendly. While they sound greener, they often need specific industrial composting conditions to break down. If mixed in with regular recycling, they can actually contaminate entire batches.

The bottom line? Code 7 plastics are tricky. Just because something can be recycled doesn’t mean it will be. Your best bet is to avoid single-use items with this label when possible and opt for reusable, clearly labeled alternatives. When in doubt, check with your local waste management provider—rules vary by region.

Staying informed helps cut through the confusion and keeps more waste out of our environment.