US produces far more waste and recycles far less of it than other developed countries

US represents 4% of the world's population but produces 12% of municipal solid waste, a stark contrast with China and India

The US produces far more garbage and recycles far less of it than other developed countries, according to a new analysis by the global risk consulting firm Verisk Maplecroft.

The figures emerge as the world faces an escalating waste crisis driven largely by plastics piling up in developing countries and the oceans. The US is at a crossroads as China and other developing countries refuse to continue to accept its waste, the report authors say.