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How much garbage does the average American generate?

According to one study, each American produces about 230 million tons of refuse a year. That's 5.1 pounds (2.3 kilograms) per person a day or about 1,900 pounds (863 kilograms) per year. Another survey reported that a typical suburban family of three generated 40 pounds (18 kilograms) of garbage weekly, with the percentages of various components presented below:

...

Type of solid waste	Percent
Aluminum	1
Polystyrene meat trays, cups, egg cartons, and packing	3
Disposable diapers	3
Wood, textiles, old clothing	5
Metal cans and nails	5
Plastic soda bottles and bags	5
Glass

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