Facts

The EPA estimates that Americans produced:

245.7 million tons of garbage in 2005, which is

20% more than in 1990, and

179% more than 1960, despite the fact that the population has only grown 60% since that time.

On average, American households produce 6 pounds of garbage per day.

More than half of this waste ends up in landfills.

To get the whole story, go to NPR's Sustainability Page.