Waste Facts
236 million tons...
that’s how much waste Americans generate every year
We all make it. We’ll do our part by making sure the waste we all create is safely and responsibly disposed of, respecting our communities and our mutual environmental heritage. Together, we will make a difference.
19.3 million barrels...
that’s how much oil we can save in one year when we recycle aluminum cans (1)
4.5 lbs per person...
The average American creates 1,640 lbs. of waste every year (2)
1.6 million tons...
that’s how much household hazardous waste Americans generate every year (3)
2.3 million tons of consumer electronics...
that’s how much e-waste Americans generate every year (4)
1 Energy Information
Administration Monthly Energy Review July 2004
2 2003 United States
Environmental Protection Agency report on municipal solid waste.
3 U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency November 2004
4 Sources: 2001 United
States Environmental Protection Agency report on municipal solid waste
and 1999 National Safety Council report on electronic products
