All items can be divided into three categories: recyclable, reusable, and compost. Recyclable collection is a standard practice, though the least efficient of the three R's. Many items that could be reused are often discarded, and compost is a practice only some cities have made a part of their garbage collection. Here is the solution: have garbage collection bins in every neighborhood (the big BFI kind, with a staircase with guardrails so people can easily deposit their waste inside) and continue recycling. Also, have a community compost heap on every city block, and presto! No more plastic bags ever need to be used to collect waste. Let's do our part to fight the war for oil by using less oil based products. Plus, think of the other benefits... community compost would inevitably mean community gardens, save money on those fancy plastic bags, getting to know your neighbors would reduce crime and would be another reason to step outside, walk a little further, and help the elderly or the disabled. Peace and love.