Tackle Trash

Name: _______________________________________ Date: _________

How much garbage does your family throw away or recycle in one 24-hour period? Conduct a survey and find out! If you go out to eat, remember to count everything that is thrown away or recycled.

Directions:

1. Categorize the garbage according to the material from which it is made. Record the categories in the first row on the chart below.
   
   
2. Use tally marks under the various categories to record the number of items you throw away or recycle. At the end of the 24 hours, total your tally marks in each category. (For example: one banana peel equals one tally mark under Food.) Circle the tally marks that represent items you recycle.
   
   
3. Estimate the percentages of the different categories and fill in the empty garbage can and recycling bin. How did your garbage and recyclables compare with the national average?