I like your point of view! Germany is very up to date when it comes to environmental consciousness. They're systems are much more developed than many others in Europe and they're a very good example to follow.

I love the "zero waste" community and it's amazing how little waste a couple can produce over a year if they really try hard.

You're right. We can't completely avoid trash, but we can make a difference if we really try. I don't use plastic bags at all, for instance. And whenever someone is offering it to me at the supermarket's cash desk, I refuse it like that: "No thanks, it's better for our environment to not use plastic bags at all." Sometimes they look at you like "Oh yeah, you're right." So at least I have the sensation to spread the word, even though I don't know if it really changes their mind, too.

The more we talk about it the merrier! :-)