With plastic pollution becoming an increasingly pressing environmental issue, many consumers want to know whether the plastic products they use every day are biodegradable. One common question is whether number 7 plastic, also known as ‘other’ plastic, is biodegradable.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Number 7 plastics are not readily biodegradable. While some newer number 7 plastics are designed to be more eco-friendly, traditional number 7 plastics like polycarbonate can persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into explaining everything you need to know about the biodegradability of number 7 plastics. You’ll learn what number 7 plastic is, why it was given the number 7 classification, factors that affect its biodegradability, how it impacts the environment, and alternatives you can choose instead.
What Is Number 7 Plastic?
Number 7 plastic, also known as “Other” or “Miscellaneous” plastic, is a category of plastic resin that does not fit into the other six plastic recycling codes. It is a catch-all category that includes various types of plastic resins, making it difficult to generalize its properties and environmental impact.
Definition and Properties
Number 7 plastic is identified by the recycling symbol with the number 7 inside it. This symbol indicates that the plastic is made from a combination of different types of resins or is a unique resin that does not fall into the other recycling categories. Some common types of plastic found in this category include polycarbonate (PC) and bioplastics such as PLA (polylactic acid).
Polycarbonate is a durable and heat-resistant plastic often used in products like water bottles, food storage containers, and eyeglass lenses. PLA, on the other hand, is a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. It is commonly used in disposable cutlery, packaging materials, and compostable bags.
Common Uses
Due to the wide range of plastic resins that fall into the Number 7 category, the uses for this type of plastic are diverse. Some common uses include:
- Water bottles and beverage containers
- Food storage containers
- Electronics
- Medical equipment
- Automotive parts
It’s important to note that not all products made from Number 7 plastic are recyclable or biodegradable. The recyclability and biodegradability of a specific product depend on the type of plastic resin used. Therefore, it is essential to check with your local recycling center or waste management facility regarding the proper disposal methods for items made from Number 7 plastic.
For more information on plastic recycling codes and how to properly dispose of different types of plastics, you can visit websites such as recyclenow.com or epa.gov/recycle.
Why Is It Classified as Number 7?
The classification of plastics with the number 7 is quite unique, as it encompasses a wide range of different types of plastics. The number 7 is used to classify plastics that do not fit into any of the other six categories. This can make it a bit confusing when trying to determine the specific properties and characteristics of number 7 plastics.
Numbering System History
The numbering system for plastics was established by the Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) in the 1980s. It was created to provide a standardized way of categorizing different types of plastics based on their chemical composition and recycling properties. The first six numbers (1-6) were assigned to specific types of plastics, such as PET (1), HDPE (2), PVC (3), LDPE (4), PP (5), and PS (6).
However, as new types of plastics were developed and introduced into the market, it became necessary to create a category for them. That’s how the number 7 was added to the classification system, representing all other types of plastics that did not fit into the existing categories.
‘Other’ Category
Number 7 plastics are often labeled as “Other” or “Miscellaneous.” This category can include a wide range of plastics, such as polycarbonate (PC), polylactic acid (PLA), nylon, and more. Each of these plastics has its own unique properties and uses.
It’s important to note that not all number 7 plastics are the same. Some may be recyclable, while others may not be. It’s always best to check with your local recycling facility to see if they accept number 7 plastics and how they should be properly disposed of.
While number 7 plastics are not specifically classified as biodegradable, there are biodegradable plastics available on the market that fall into this category. These biodegradable plastics are designed to break down more easily in the environment, reducing their impact on landfills and reducing pollution.
It is worth mentioning that biodegradable plastics can have their own set of challenges. They require specific conditions to break down properly, such as exposure to sunlight or specific temperatures. If not disposed of correctly, they may not degrade as intended.
Factors Affecting Biodegradability
When it comes to determining whether number 7 plastic is biodegradable or not, there are several factors that come into play. Let’s take a closer look at two key factors that influence the biodegradability of plastic: plastic composition and environmental conditions.
Plastic Composition
The composition of number 7 plastic plays a significant role in its biodegradability. Number 7 plastic, also known as “other” or “miscellaneous” plastic, is a catch-all category that includes various types of plastic materials. These materials can range from polycarbonate (PC), which is commonly used in baby bottles, to biodegradable plastics such as polylactic acid (PLA).
It’s important to note that not all types of number 7 plastic are biodegradable. In fact, the majority of plastics in this category are not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years. However, there are some biodegradable alternatives available, such as PLA, which is derived from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane.
When considering the biodegradability of number 7 plastic, it’s crucial to look for specific labels or certifications that indicate its compostability or ability to break down naturally. These certifications, such as the ASTM D6400 or EN 13432 standards, ensure that the plastic meets specific criteria for biodegradability and compostability.
Environmental Conditions
Another crucial factor that affects the biodegradability of number 7 plastic is the environmental conditions in which it is exposed. Biodegradation occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or algae, break down the plastic into simpler compounds.
However, for the biodegradation process to take place efficiently, specific environmental conditions need to be met. Factors such as temperature, humidity, oxygen availability, and the presence of microorganisms play a significant role in determining the rate at which plastic can biodegrade.
For instance, in an industrial composting facility with controlled conditions, biodegradable number 7 plastics can break down within a few weeks or months. On the other hand, if these plastics end up in a landfill, where oxygen and sunlight are limited, the biodegradation process can take significantly longer, sometimes even hundreds of years.
It’s crucial to note that even biodegradable plastics, including certain types of number 7 plastics, may not effectively biodegrade in certain conditions, such as marine environments. The marine environment presents unique challenges for biodegradation, making it essential to properly dispose of plastics to prevent marine pollution.
Environmental Impact
Persistence in Landfills and Oceans
Number 7 plastic, also known as “Other” or “Miscellaneous” plastic, is a category that includes various types of plastic resins. Unfortunately, most number 7 plastics are not biodegradable. This means that they do not break down naturally over time, leading to significant environmental concerns.
When number 7 plastic ends up in landfills, it can persist for hundreds of years. The slow decomposition process of these plastics contributes to the accumulation of waste in landfills, which can have detrimental effects on the environment. Landfills take up valuable land space and can release harmful toxins into the surrounding soil and water sources.
In addition to landfills, number 7 plastic also poses a threat to our oceans. Plastic waste, including number 7 plastics, often finds its way into water bodies through improper disposal or as a result of littering. Once in the ocean, these plastics can break down into smaller pieces called microplastics, which are harmful to marine life. Marine animals may mistake these microplastics for food, leading to ingestion and potential harm to their health.
It is important to note that some companies have started to develop biodegradable alternatives for number 7 plastic. These alternatives are designed to break down more quickly and reduce the environmental impact. However, they are not yet widely available or commonly used.
Toxicity Concerns
Another significant concern regarding number 7 plastic is its potential toxicity. Some number 7 plastics contain harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, which can leach into food or beverages when heated or exposed to certain conditions.
Studies have shown that BPA, in particular, can mimic estrogen and disrupt hormone levels in the body. This has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with consuming food or drinks stored in number 7 plastic containers. It is recommended to avoid microwaving or heating food in these containers to minimize the risk of chemical leaching.
For more information on the environmental impact of plastics and ways to reduce plastic waste, you can visit websites such as National Geographic or Plastic Pollution Coalition.
Safer Alternatives
While number 7 plastic is not typically biodegradable, there are several safer alternatives available in the market. These alternatives are designed to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability. Let’s explore two of these alternatives:
Plant-Based Number 7 Plastics
Plant-based number 7 plastics are a great option for those looking for a more eco-friendly alternative. These plastics are made from renewable resources such as corn, sugar cane, or algae. They have similar properties to traditional plastics but are biodegradable and compostable.
One example of a plant-based number 7 plastic is PLA (polylactic acid). PLA is derived from corn and is commonly used in food packaging, disposable cutlery, and bottles. It breaks down into organic compounds within a few months when composted in industrial composting facilities.
Another plant-based alternative is PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates). PHA is produced by bacteria and can be used in a variety of applications, including packaging, agricultural films, and medical devices. It is 100% biodegradable and can be composted at home.
Other Biodegradable Options
Aside from plant-based number 7 plastics, there are other biodegradable options to consider. These alternatives can help reduce plastic waste and minimize the impact on the environment:
- PLA-based plastics: PLA-based plastics, mentioned earlier, are not only plant-based but also biodegradable. They are widely used in packaging and disposable products.
- Biodegradable polymers: Various biodegradable polymers, such as PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate), PCL (polycaprolactone), and PHBV (polyhydroxybutyrate-valerate), offer biodegradability and can be used as alternatives to traditional plastics.
- Bioplastics: Bioplastics are made from renewable resources and can be either biodegradable or non-biodegradable. They include materials like PLA, PHA, and starch-based plastics.
- Paper and cardboard: When it comes to packaging, paper and cardboard are excellent biodegradable alternatives. They are easily recyclable and break down naturally.
It’s important to note that while these alternatives are more environmentally friendly than traditional number 7 plastics, proper disposal is still necessary. Composting or recycling these materials ensures they have the chance to break down naturally and contribute to a more sustainable future.
For more information on sustainable plastics and biodegradable alternatives, you can visit websites like Bioplastics Magazine and Greenpeace.
Conclusion
While traditional number 7 plastics like polycarbonate do not biodegrade easily, the emergence of plant-based and biodegradable number 7 plastics provides more eco-friendly options. When possible, choosing alternatives like PLA over conventional number 7 plastics can help reduce plastic pollution.
In conclusion, standard number 7 plastics are generally not biodegradable. But by learning more about the composition and environmental impact of different plastic polymers, consumers can make informed choices to be part of the solution.