The hierarchy is a useful policy tool for conserving resources, for dealing with landfill shortages, for
minimizing air and water pollution, and for protecting public health and safety. In many developing
countries, some aspects of this hierarchy are already in place, since traditional practices revolving around
waste prevention reuse, and recycling are prevalent. (UNPE, 2005). According to the U.S. EPA, in 2006,
Americans generated about 251 million tons of trash. That s about 4.6 pounds per person, every day. Of
this 251 million, 82 million tons of it were recycled. This recycling saved the energy equivalent of more
than 10 billion gallons of gasoline.