Rotten Truth (About Garbage) takes an in-depth look at the complex issues surrounding municipal solid waste. This on-line exhibition is organized into four major sections. What Is Garbage? looks at how we define garbage, and why it consists of more than what we throw away. There's No "Away" explores how burying, burning, and recycling garbage doesn't really get rid of it, and that reducing what we use is the only real solution to the garbage problem. Nature Recycles shows how the natural process of decay makes new life possible by recycling the limited number of nutrients present in the environment. Finally, Making Choices provides some helpful hints on how we can all create less garbage.

Photo courtesy of Rodale Stock Images

Throughout the exhibition, you can:

• Read about people who have made a difference in how we think about municipal solid waste today;
• Try a variety of activities at home or school; and

You can also consult an extensive resource list to find out more about garbage and what you can do about it.

For exhibit developers or those who work in museums:
Visit the section for exhibit developers to learn how Rotten Truth (About Garbage) was created. Find out how lead exhibit developer Kathy McLean became interested in the subject of garbage, or learn some tips on how to create environmentally-conscious exhibitions.

Who created this exhibition?
This exhibition was researched and developed with the help and expertise of many individuals and organizations.

Finding your way through the exhibition:
By following the icon, you can sequentially visit each exhibit area. (Clicking on the icon will enable you to return to the previous page.) Please note that several activities, resources, and profiles are located at other web sites. After visiting them, click on your web browser's "back" button to return to your place in the exhibition. Finally, if at any time you want to visit a different exhibit area, return to this page by clicking on the "home" garbage bag icon, and selecting the desired exhibit area below. Enjoy your visit!