How much household waste are we making?
According to data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average U.S. household generated about 4.51 pounds of waste per person per day in 2017. This amounts to a total of about 1,600 pounds of waste per year per household. This figure includes both recycled materials and waste that goes to landfills.
Data from the World Bank suggests approximately one third of global waste is disposed of in landfills. In the United States, approximately 54% of all waste is sent to landfills, while in Europe, this figure is lower, at approximately 33%. In developing countries, the percentage of waste that is sent to landfills is often higher, as these countries may lack the infrastructure and resources to properly manage and dispose of waste.
What are effects of household waste on the environment?
Household waste can have a range of negative impacts on the environment. When household waste is not properly managed, it can contaminate soil and water, leading to environmental degradation and posing a risk to human health. Landfills are a major source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. As waste decomposes in landfills, it releases methane, which can trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere and contribute to global warming. Landfills can also take up large areas of land, which can result in habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. In addition, the production of many products and materials requires the use of natural resources, such as oil, water, and forests. By generating large amounts of waste, we are using up these resources faster than they can be replenished, leading to resource depletion.
To reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, it is important for individuals, businesses, and governments to adopt sustainable waste management practices, such as recycling, composting, and reducing consumption. By doing so, we can help to reduce the negative impacts of landfills and create a more sustainable future.
Change starts at home
- Reuse and repurpose items whenever possible. Instead of buying new items, try to find creative ways to use the things you already have. For example, use old newspapers as plant pot liners or turn a pickle jar into a container for leftover food.
- Recycle properly. Make sure to properly separate recyclable materials, such as paper, plastic, and metal, and dispose of them in the appropriate recycling bins. This helps to conserve natural resources and reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills.
- Compost food scraps and yard waste. Composting is the process of breaking down organic matter, such as food scraps and yard waste, into a rich soil amendment. This can help reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills and can also provide valuable nutrients for your garden or outdoor plants.
- Reduce your consumption of single-use items. Single-use items, such as plastic bags, straws, and utensils, are designed to be used only once before being discarded. These items contribute significantly to waste and can have negative environmental impacts. Consider using reusable alternatives instead, such as cloth bags, metal straws, and washable utensils.
- Shop wisely. Look for products with minimal packaging and choose products made from sustainable materials. By opting for products with less packaging, you can reduce the amount of waste that you generate. Additionally, choosing products made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo or recycled materials, can help reduce the overall environmental impact of your purchases.
- Repair and maintain your possessions. Fixing broken items or maintaining them properly can help extend their lifespan and reduce the need to replace them. This can save you money and reduce the amount of waste that you generate.
- Donate or sell items that you no longer need or use. Rather than throwing these items away, consider donating them to a thrift store or selling them online. This can help reduce waste and give items a second life.
- Use reusable containers and bags. Rather than using disposable plastic bags and containers, opt for reusable alternatives, such as cloth bags, glass jars, and metal containers. These items can be used over and over again, reducing the need for disposable options.
- Choose products with minimal packaging. Look for products that are sold in bulk or that have minimal packaging. This can help reduce the amount of waste that you generate and can also save you money in the long run.
- Support businesses that prioritize sustainability. When shopping, look for businesses that prioritize sustainability in their operations. These businesses may offer products that are made from sustainable materials, use eco-friendly packaging, or have other practices in place to minimize their environmental impact. By supporting these businesses, you can encourage more companies to adopt sustainable practices.
What household waste materials are the worst for the environment?
There are several household materials or items that people throw away that are particularly harmful to the environment. These include:
- Plastic: Plastic is a major contributor to pollution and waste, as it takes hundreds of years to break down in the environment. Plastic waste can end up in landfills, where it can release methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Plastic waste can also end up in the ocean, where it can harm marine life and contribute to the formation of plastic pollution.
- Electronic waste: Electronic waste, or e-waste, refers to discarded electronic devices, such as computers, phones, and televisions. E-waste can contain toxic materials, such as lead and mercury, which can leach into the environment if not properly managed. In addition, the production of electronic devices requires the use of natural resources, such as metals and fossil fuels, which can contribute to resource depletion.
- Single-use items: Single-use items, such as plastic bags, straws, and utensils, are designed to be used only once before being discarded. These items contribute significantly to waste and can have negative environmental impacts.
- Chemical products: Many household products, such as cleaning products, pesticides, and personal care products, contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment if not properly disposed of. When these products are disposed of in landfills or are released into the environment, they can contaminate soil and water and harm wildlife.
Learn more
US Environmental Protection Agency
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)