Waste per capita

In 2000, according to the EPA, our per capita generation of waste in the United States was 4.5 pounds per person (232 million tons of total waste generation), up from 3.7 pounds in 1980 and 2.7 pounds in 1960. It is no surprise Americans represent among the most material intensive economies in the world and resources continue to be used at a rate our planet cannot sustain. Individually, we cannot completely eliminate our impact on the environment but we must look at our global problems and pursue solutions at any opportunity. We all can work to create less waste and be more resourceful with what we consume. It will benefit us all, especially our children and the environment they will experience.