How many kilograms of trash does the average American family produce each week?

Question

How many kilograms of trash does the average American family produce each week?

Answer 1

The EPA reckons the US creates about 250 million tonnes of municipal solid waste(1). There's just over 300 million people in the US, which means the average US citizen disposes of over 700kg (over 1500lb) per year.

Of course, this is just municipal waste, and doesn't include all the waste from primary industries, manufacturing, transport, and retail, which would probably be much, much more.

A University of Arizona study found that US households throw out nearly 500kg (1100lb) of food(2). I guess that's at least a couple of hundred of kilos per person.

I agree with DreamyinOh. The Story of Stuff is well worth watching.

Answer 2

If you have time you have GOT to check out this amazing video about garbage: http://www.storyofstuff.com/

It will answer all your questions and more. It is a really cute film that everyone should watch at least once!