A zero waste approach is the most effective way to protect communities and the environment. Waste production and management accounts for 36.7% of US greenhouse gas emissions due to resource extraction, transportation, processing, and manufacturing operations.

Reducing waste is the only way to achieve emission reductions required to stabilize the climate by 2050. Landfilling and incinerating waste should be avoided and composting and recycling should be favored by public policies.

This factsheet offers 12 policies that are necessary for limiting greenhouse gas emissions.