That's the important part: "didn't end up in the landfill"

jrosto,

In the end, you're right of course. I just wonder how much more of these materials could/would be diverted if municipalities and even businesses would make this an easier and more economical process?

An argument for leaving the limbs- you will be creating an edge effect. A habitat for much diverse activity. Research has shown that the homestead in general is much more healthy when attention is given to creating edge (diversity).
Google < "edge effect" ecology > for more info on the benefits to humans and critters.
We are conditioned to identify piled brush as unsightly. You can educate your guests about what critters are living there and all the positive observations you will have after creating an edge. And brush piles can be stacked so as not to be so unattractive.