What is the 7 plastic?

What Does Plastic #7 Really Mean—and What Should You Do With It?

When you see a "7" inside the recycling triangle on a plastic item, it’s easy to assume it’s recyclable. But the truth is more complicated. Unlike plastics #1 through #6, which are standardized and commonly accepted in recycling programs, plastic #7 is a catch-all category that includes a mix of less common materials—including some made from renewable resources like cornstarch.

One of the most common #7 plastics is PLA, a bioplastic derived from plants. You’ll often find it in compostable cups, utensils, and biodegradable produce bags. While it sounds eco-friendly—and technically is, under the right conditions—PLA isn’t recyclable in traditional systems. In fact, it can contaminate recycling streams if tossed into the same bin as PET or HDPE plastics.

So what should you do with these items? The key is proper disposal. PLA and other compostable #7 plastics only break down in industrial composting facilities, where heat and microorganisms are carefully controlled. In a home compost bin or, worse, in a landfill, they may persist just like conventional plastic.

Don’t be fooled by the "compostable" label if your community doesn’t have access to commercial composting. Without the right infrastructure, these items end up doing more harm than good. Your best bet? Check with local waste management to see if they accept compostable plastics. If not, consider switching to reusable alternatives—like metal utensils or glass containers—to truly reduce waste.

In the end, plastic #7 isn’t a recycling solution—it’s a reminder that not all eco-labels tell the full story. Being mindful of disposal options is the real step toward sustainability.