Waste in America

People say that America is the greatest nation in the world and that God blesses America. But do we consider ourselves so blessed that we live lives of excess and waste while the world around us becomes engrossed in garbage and deteriorates? Visit PBSto take a shocking look at just how much Americans consume and waste.

The Truth About Trash

With less than five percent of the world’s population, America produces 40 percent of its waste. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average American produces about 4.4 pounds (2 kg) of garbage a day, or a total of 1,600 pounds (726 kg) a year. Americans also waste 96 billion pounds of food each year. We need to change this behavior! Reduce your purchases to necessary items only. Do not use plastic grocery bags. Reuse or pass along anything that you can to avoid throwing something out. These are easy steps we can take to slow the rate at which our landfills are being consumed.

Recycling is the Answer

An easy and effective way to reduce waste is to recycle. Every day Americans throw away 60 million plastic bottles, and office workers use about 500 disposable cups a year. These are items that can be recycled. If you do not already recycle at your house, contact your local waste management provider to find out how you can start. In Columbus, OH, nearly 200 recycling drop boxesare located around the city to make recycling even easier. Let’s start making a brighter tomorrow today