Americans live with waste every day — a growing problem. Recycling is one of the ways we can have a positive impact on our environment. Recycling can also provide us with renewable sources of energy that help reduce greenhouse gases. A zero-waste recycling strategy only works if we understand our shopping, consumption and disposal habits, with the goal to move toward zero trash sent to landfills and incineration. This knowledge will not only make us better recyclers but also better voters as we help shape local, state and national environmental policy. This program will clear up confusion and address how to achieve renewable energy and a low carbon economy.