The zero waste movement

Lately the zero waste movement has gained a lot of momentum. Participants aim to stop consumerism, and save the environment. I can see upsides to this:

-less production -> less emissions in the production process
-less waste to landfills -> less methane emissions
-less waste that ends up in the sea compromising the aquatic ecosystems

From a scientific point of view, are zero wasters doing a difference? Or is it enough to recycle?