I really liked this article. Even though we don't have access to the most relevant information (e.g. dollars per ton CO2 saved, or a cost benefit analysis usin

I really liked this article. Even though we don't have access to the most relevant information (e.g. dollars per ton CO2 saved, or a cost benefit analysis using a shadow price of CO2), the author presents a lot of very compelling figures to show that recycling is overrated. For example, given the overwhelming concentration of the benefits of recycling in paper and metal (as opposed to plastic and bottles), surely collections efforts and public education should be focussed on these. And the author is exactly right to refer to "indoctrination" regarding recycling. At least that was my experience in primary school and high school. I think the most important problem with the Green movement is not special interests per se (I doubt recyclers really that powerful) but the mindset that says that changing other people's opinion is more important than presenting them with the most accurate information.