In fact, a great deal of pollution could actually be prevented if we did not produce so much waste in the first place. We can reduce landfill waste by buying products that are biodegradable and have less packaging. Scientists have even developed environmentally friendly plastics. Unlike traditional plastics, they are made from biodegradable, plant-based materials that can be broken down and will eventually disappear. The majority of items dumped in landfills are actually reusable or recyclable. It takes only a little extra effort to reuse things before throwing them away, and to separate our recyclable and non-recyclable trash. Plastic, glass, paper and metal can all be recycled, but it is much harder to do so if they are mixed up with other trash. Recycling is a great way to save energy and natural resources.