How many pounds of trash does the average American produce each year?
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in 2003, total solid waste generation was over 236 million tons, representing a 50 percent increase in generation over 1980 levels. In 2003, the overall composting and recycling rate was just over 30 percent. The average American generates about 4.5 pounds of trash per day, with just over 1 pound of that being diverted for recycling. For more information on the municipal waste stream, visit www.epa.
