Join left-right and center host Bob Shear for his new podcast, Shear Intelligence.

The twice-monthly podcast features thinkers and trendsetters in conversation with one of political journalism's leading voices.

Through the show's unique and sometimes surprising perspectives, you'll get up to speed on the current issues shaping the Beltway and the world. Find sheer

intelligence on KCRW's iTunes page. From KCRW in Santa Monica and PRI Public Radio International,

this is To the Point. Recycling. Are the benefits worth the cost?

Hello again, I'm Orin-Aulney, and this is a rebroadcast of To the Point from Public Radio International,

a daily look at the issues Americans care about most.

Here's something to think about as you separate paper from plastic, metal from glass,

and yard trimmings from everything else,

columnist John Tierney calls most recycling a waste of time and money, a kind of atonement for the

sin of overconsumption. Angry defenders insist it protects the environment, saves public money,

and generates profits for a growing industry. With mandatory recycling on the increase,

the argument's going on in more and more places.

Today's talking point,

reflections on history and politics,

after nine years of personal interviews

with George H.W. Bush.

First, here's the news.

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24-hour all-news channel. Stream BBC World Service,

NPR and KCRW programs. Continuous coverage

and accessible via our smartphone app or online at kCRW.com.

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